Hutchinson made 50 club appearances for Ipswich in 2023/24, scoring 11 times.

And now manager Kieran McKenna is keen to bring him on board as he bids to keep the Tractor Boys in the top flight, with Hutchinson reportedly set to join in a PS22million deal, plus a potential PS2.5m more in add-ons.

The funding boost will be welcomed by Mikel Arteta, as he looks to again strengthen his squad for another tilt at the Premier League title. The Gunners are yet to secure their first summer signing, but have been linked with a host of European stars.

A sale will also benefit Todd Boehly and co, with the club under pressure to comply with profit and sustainability rules. The Redhill-born star was sparsely used at Stamford Bridge in his one full season there, appearing just once in the top flight as a substitute.

Should the deal go through, Hutchinson will smash the previous Ipswich transfer record. But after helping the club secure promotion, he gave little indication that he would be returning for 2024/25.

He took to Instagram to bid an emotional farewell to fans, writing: "I want to reflect on how special this year has been for me,. Since arriving at the club you have all made me feel welcome and loved. Thanks to my amazing team-mates who l now call brothers, helped me from the first day I entered that changing room.

"I'd also like to thank the special people behind the scenes who treated me like one of their own. To all the coaching staff that helped develop me into the player I am today, thank you."

And he also spoke highly of McKenna, lauding him for "trusting and believing in my ability. He signed off the message with "Ipswich Town will always have a place in my heart."