Gary O’Neill eyes £8m Southampton winger Tom Fellows for Ipswich

Ipswich Town manager Gary O’Neill is eyeing Southampton’s 22‑year‑old winger Tom Fellows as a priority signing, a player valued at £8 million plus £2 million in add‑ons, Birmingham‑born attacker, who moved from West Bromwich Albion in August 2025, could give the legs and imagination O’Neill says the club need to avoid being ‘tourists’ in the Premier League.

O’Neill arrived at Ipswich Town with a three‑year contract, a new manager and a club that has just returned to the Premier League. He faces a summer of danger and possibility as he reshapes the squad.

The winger on O’Neill’s radar is 22‑year‑old Tom Fellows, a Birmingham‑born attacker who joined Southampton from West Bromwich Albion in August 2025. The deal was reported at £8 million with an additional £2 million in add‑ons and he signed a four‑year contract that gives Southampton protection.

Fellows featured in 37 Championship matches last season, emerging as one of Southampton’s brighter attacking sparks. He can operate wide, cut inside or play as a more advanced creator, combining pace with directness that Premier League managers increasingly crave.

Earlier this year Everton and Leeds United also showed interest in the player, underscoring his wider admiration. His résumé includes a UEFA European Under‑21 Championship winner’s medal with England.

Before moving to Southampton, Fellows amassed 85 senior appearances for West Bromwich Albion and was named the club’s Player of the Year twice. Those accolades highlight his experience beyond academy promise.

O’Neill has said Ipswich need more than enthusiasm; they require difference‑makers who can stretch opponents and create moments. Fellows would bring thrust, unpredictability and a sense that the club is building rather than merely patching holes.

Southampton will not want to lose a player they paid good money for, especially with time left on his contract. Nevertheless, if O’Neill’s first window follows this youthful, attack‑minded pattern, Portman Road may have reason to feel quietly encouraged.