Ipswich Town’s pursuit of Jaden Philogene from Aston Villa for a reported fee of £21m marks a significant move in the winter transfer window and could have broader implications for other clubs, particularly Crystal Palace. Philogene, a 22-year-old England U21 international, is undergoing a medical at Portman Road, signaling that Kieran McKenna’s side has likely won the race for his signature, beating Everton to the highly-rated winger. Unai Emery has limited Philogene’s involvement at Villa this season, granting him just two Premier League starts, which likely paved the way for his exit. Aston Villa’s imminent acquisition of Donyell Malen has further eased Philogene’s path to Ipswich.

The Tractor Boys’ decision to prioritize Philogene may inadvertently benefit Crystal Palace in their pursuit of Ben Doak, another young winger in high demand. Both Ipswich and Palace have been in competition to secure Doak’s signature, with Liverpool reportedly rejecting initial bids from both clubs earlier this month. However, Ipswich’s focus on Philogene could indicate a shift in strategy, potentially leaving Crystal Palace with a clearer path to landing Doak.

While it remains possible that Ipswich could sign both wingers, this scenario appears unlikely given their current squad dynamics. Jack Clarke, who joined Ipswich in the summer from Sunderland for £15m, has struggled for minutes, starting only four Premier League games this season. Adding both Philogene and Doak would create further congestion in their attacking options. Reports suggest clubs have inquired about taking Clarke on loan, but Ipswich seems reluctant to let him leave, further diminishing the likelihood of a double swoop.

Crystal Palace, on the other hand, appear to be strengthening their position in the chase for Doak. The Scotland international, currently on loan at Middlesbrough, has attracted significant interest due to his performances, but Liverpool’s £30m valuation has proven a stumbling block. Sources indicate that Crystal Palace are confident £25m could be enough to secure Doak’s services, although Liverpool has yet to respond to a rumored second bid. If Ipswich opts to finalize the Philogene deal and shift their focus away from Doak, it could provide Palace with the opportunity to move unchallenged for the 19-year-old.

This potential development could prove pivotal for Palace. Doak is seen as a rising star with immense potential, and his addition could offer a dynamic, youthful edge to their attacking lineup. Liverpool’s asking price remains steep, but Palace’s willingness to negotiate close to that valuation demonstrates their determination to land the winger. With the January transfer window now heating up, Ipswich’s decisions could play a key role in reshaping the market, directly impacting Crystal Palace’s transfer ambitions.

As Ipswich edges closer to signing Philogene, this move not only strengthens their squad but could indirectly push Crystal Palace closer to achieving their goal of signing Doak. All eyes will now be on Liverpool’s response to Palace’s offers, as well as how Ipswich’s transfer strategy unfolds in the coming days.