The transfer saga of Dutch goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen has reached its final chapter, as confirmed this morning. The 26-year-old will leave Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise to join newly promoted English club Ipswich Town in a deal reportedly worth a minimum of €10 million. The agreement includes potential performance-based bonuses that could push the total to €13 million.
Scherpen’s departure caps off an impressive season in Belgium, where he claimed both the Croky Cup and the Golden Glove award for most clean sheets. His stellar performances did not go unnoticed, with interest from clubs across Europe intensifying in recent months.
The young shot-stopper began his European journey with Brighton & Hove Albion in 2021, arriving from Ajax for €5 million. However, his path to England’s top flight faced delays, with loan spells at KV Ostende, Vitesse, and Sturm Graz before securing a permanent move to Union Saint-Gilloise last summer. The Belgian club acquired him for around €2 million on a contract lasting until mid-2028.
In his 43 appearances for Union Saint-Gilloise, Scherpen conceded just 22 goals and kept 21 clean sheets. Now, he prepares to don the Tractor Boys jersey after finalizing the medical and agreeing to a four-year deal with Ipswich. His arrival adds to a competitive goalkeeper room, where he will compete with established names like Christian Walton, who was the clear first-choice last season.
The transfer also sees Kayne van Oevelen, who joined from FC Volendam, reinforce Ipswich’s ranks. The club’s summer activity reflects its ambition to establish itself in the Premier League following promotion.