Morocco international defender Issa Diop has completed a move from Fulham to Ipswich Town, with the Premier League newcomers strengthening their defence ahead of the new season.
The 29-year-old centre-back has signed a contract that will keep him at Ipswich until the summer of 2030 after the two clubs agreed a permanent transfer.
Ipswich confirmed the arrival of Diop, although the clubs did not reveal the official transfer fee. Reports indicate the deal is worth around £8.5m (€10m).
The move brings an experienced Premier League defender to an Ipswich side looking to establish itself after promotion from the Championship last season.
Diop arrives at Portman Road with significant top-flight experience, having played 173 Premier League matches during spells with West Ham United and Fulham.
The Morocco defender also comes off the back of a memorable international campaign, featuring five times as the Atlas Lions reached the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking after completing the transfer, Diop said he was looking forward to beginning the next stage of his career with Ipswich.
“I’m excited to take the next step in my career at Ipswich Town,” said Diop.
“I know how big the club is and have enjoyed all of the conversations I have had before making the move. I know this is the right place for me.
“It has been a busy summer for me, representing Morocco at the World Cup, but I am proud to be joining Ipswich Town and am looking forward to meeting the staff, my team-mates and the supporters very soon.”
The move ends Diop’s spell at Fulham after three seasons with the London club.
The defender joined the Cottagers from West Ham United in 2022 in a reported £15m deal and went on to make 96 appearances across all competitions.
However, opportunities became limited last season, with Diop making only eight Premier League starts before seeking a new challenge.
Before moving to Fulham, Diop spent four seasons with West Ham after joining the Hammers from French club Toulouse in 2018.
His performances in England helped him build a reputation as a physically strong defender capable of competing at the highest level.
For Ipswich, the signing is part of an ambitious recruitment drive as they prepare for another Premier League campaign.
The club has already strengthened several areas of the squad, with Diop becoming their sixth signing of the summer transfer window.
Ipswich recently completed the signing of Ghana winger Abdul Fatawu from Leicester City in a reported £20m deal, while striker Emersonn arrived from Toulouse for a club-record fee believed to be around £26m.
The promoted side have also made permanent moves for defender Cedric Kipre and forward Chuba Akpom following successful loan spells, while goalkeeper Kayne van Oevelen joined from Dutch club FC Volendam.
