Axel Tuanzebe has left Ipswich Town and completed a free transfer to newly-promoted Premier League side Burnley. The former Manchester United defender joins Vincent Kompany’s top-flight returnees on a short-term contract—Burnley’s third major signing this summer alongside Quilindschy Hartman from Feyenoord and goalkeeper Max Weiss.
Despite being offered a new deal by Ipswich, Tuanzebe opted to walk away following the club’s return to the Championship. The 27-year-old, who made 37 senior appearances for Manchester United, had established himself as a key figure under manager Kieran McKenna at Portman Road. However, a midseason hand injury limited his impact in the latter part of the campaign.
Club legend Mick Mills pointed to Tuanzebe’s absence as pivotal in Ipswich’s 4–1 defeat at West Ham late in the season. Mills praised the defender’s strength and ability to nullify top attackers, singling out his performance against Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma. “He didn’t want to take Axel on because Axel had him completely and utterly in his pocket,” Mills remarked.
Ipswich had also extended contract offers to both Tuanzebe and fellow centre-back Cameron Burgess before the end of June. But Burgess too will depart after declining renewal terms, dealing McKenna’s back line a double blow. The manager had previously praised Tuanzebe in April as “a very important player for us… who’s built himself back up to a good level… and found a good home here.”
Nevertheless, Burnley swooped in late June and secured Tuanzebe’s signature, beating out competition from other suitors. Premier League sides Wolves and Leeds were reportedly keen, while Norwich City, Bristol City and Turkish side Trabzonspor also expressed interest. Trabzonspor’s pursuit ended over wage disagreements, with Tuanzebe’s weekly salary demands reportedly nearing £40,000.
Burnley boss Scott Parker is believed to be a strong admirer of Tuanzebe’s versatility—comfortable playing at both centre-back and right-back—a trait viewed as essential for Burnley’s survival ambitions this season. Tuanzebe’s Premier League experience and defensive maturity could prove crucial in a transitional season for the Clarets.
Ipswich, meanwhile, are facing a period of significant squad overhaul. In addition to Tuanzebe and Burgess, midfielders Massimo Luongo and Marcus Harness will also leave the club on free transfers. However, Ipswich have activated contract extensions on several young prospects, including promising defender Elkan Baggott.
With the departures of key players, McKenna’s focus now turns to rebuilding a back line that was central to the club’s push for Premier League survival. Finding a right-back of Tuanzebe’s calibre and a reliable central partner for returning options like Dara O’Shea or Jacob Greaves will be top priorities. The manager remains determined to keep the club in contention for an immediate return to the top flight in 2025–26.
🗣️ Quotes of the Week
Mick Mills on Tuanzebe:
“He’s come against some really good players and done really well… He didn’t want to take Axel on because Axel had him completely and utterly in his pocket.”
Kieran McKenna on Tuanzebe’s value:
“He’s been a very important player for us this season and last season… he’s built himself back up to a good level… let’s see what the next few weeks bring.”
