Done Deal: It has been officially confirmed that Everton’s player Ashley Young is leaving the team for Ipswich Town
Ipswich Town have officially confirmed the signing of seasoned Premier League campaigner Ashley Young, in what marks a significant and historic addition to the squad. At 40 years old, Young becomes the oldest player ever signed by the Tractor Boys, bringing with him a wealth of experience, leadership, and versatility that manager Kieran McKenna believes will be invaluable during the upcoming campaign.
A Storied Career Across England and Europe
Ashley Young arrives at Portman Road on a one-year contract following two solid seasons at Everton, where he featured regularly as a right-back. During the 2024/25 season alone, he made 32 Premier League appearances, demonstrating that despite his age, he continues to operate at a high level.
Throughout his illustrious career, Young has amassed an impressive 750 club appearances, scoring 88 goals across all competitions. Best known for his time at Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Everton, Young has enjoyed a trophy-laden journey through the game. His silverware collection includes the Premier League title, FA Cup, and Europa League, all achieved during his time with the Red Devils.
His success hasn’t been limited to England either — he added a Serie A winner’s medal to his cabinet while playing under Antonio Conte at Inter Milan in the 2020/21 season. Internationally, Young has been capped 39 times by England, representing the Three Lions in major tournaments and contributing to their campaigns with his experience and tactical intelligence.
Kieran McKenna: “A Strong Signing On and Off the Pitch”
Reacting to the signing, Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna shared his enthusiasm about what Young will bring to the team, both on the pitch and behind the scenes:
> “Ashley has had a fantastic career and his achievements speak for themselves. He has maintained an extremely high level of professionalism and competitiveness throughout the years, and he is still performing at a very good standard.
“His leadership qualities and experience will be of great value to our group. He’s not just coming here for a final lap — he’s hungry to contribute meaningfully, both in matches and within the dressing room.
“This is a very strong signing for us — for the squad and for the wider club.”
Young was in attendance last night to watch his son Tyler feature as a trialist for Ipswich’s U21 side at Needham Market, hinting at a growing family connection to the club.
A Busy Summer for the Blues
Ashley Young becomes Ipswich’s fourth signing of the current transfer window as the club continues to strengthen in preparation for their Championship campaign. The Blues have already added:
David Button, an experienced goalkeeper, signed on a free transfer from Reading
Cedric Kipré, a physical and athletic defender, brought in on loan from Stade de Reims
Azor Matusiwa, a dynamic midfielder snapped up from Rennes in a deal worth £7.8 million
Young’s arrival adds veteran leadership and top-flight know-how to a squad that is clearly being built with both immediate success and longer-term ambition in mind.
Next Up: Friendly Clash in Scotland
Ipswich’s preparations for the new season continue on Friday night, when they face Aberdeen in what will be their second public pre-season friendly of the summer. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM, and supporters will be eager to see how McKenna integrates his new arrivals, including the legendary Ashley Young, into the matchday plans.
As Ipswich Town aim to make a serious push this season, Young’s arrival signals not only a bold move in terms of experience but also a clear statement of intent: the Blues are ready to compete — with wisdom, grit, and ambition leading the charge.