The Dutch goalkeeper Kjell Scherpen is set to make a high-profile switch to Ipswich Town in England’s Premier League, with the club agreeing to pay Union Saint-Gilloise a base fee of €10 million. The deal includes potential performance-based bonuses that could push the total to €13 million, marking a significant upgrade in his career.
At 26 years old, Scherpen has established himself as one of Belgium’s most reliable shot-stoppers, delivering a standout season with Union Saint-Gilloise. His contributions were pivotal in securing both the Croky Cup and the prestigious Golden Glove award for the goalkeeper with the most clean sheets in the league.
Scouts from multiple European leagues, including Italy, Germany, and England, had been monitoring Scherpen’s progress closely. Fabrizio Romano, a renowned transfer expert, highlighted the growing interest in late May, setting the stage for Ipswich Town’s eventual move. The English club’s pursuit culminated in a successful agreement this week.
Scherpen’s journey to Belgium began in 2021 when Brighton & Hove Albion acquired him from Ajax for €5 million. However, opportunities in England were limited, and he was subsequently loaned to KV Oostende, Vitesse Arnhem, and Sturm Graz before making the move to Union Saint-Gilloise in the summer of 2025. His permanent transfer cost the Belgian club around €2 million, with a contract running until mid-2028.
Over the past season, Scherpen made 43 appearances, keeping 21 clean sheets—a record that underscored his reliability. Before finalizing the deal, he must complete a medical examination, after which he will sign a four-year contract with Ipswich Town, affectionately known as the Tractor Boys.
The Premier League newcomer has also bolstered its squad with Kayne van Oevelen, who joined from FC Volendam. Van Oevelen will compete with Scherpen and last season’s first-choice goalkeeper, Christian Walton, for the starting position between the posts.