Dutchman Pim Balkestein is hoping to follow a number of fellow countrymen in being a success at Ipswich.

The 21-year-old defender, who spent a short period on trial at Portman Road at the end of last season, has signed a two-year contract with the Championship club for an undisclosed fee.

Balkestein told the club's official website: "I know about the Dutch players that have been at Ipswich, going back to [Frans] Thijssen and [Arnold] Muhren, with Martijn Reuser and Fabian [Wilnis] as well and hopefully I can be a success here like those guys.

"English football suits my game. I like the physical side and joining Ipswich is a fantastic step up for me."