Ipswich boss Jim Magilton has revealed he is close to bringing Southampton midfielder Rudi Skacel to Portman Road.

The Czech Republic international has been in discussions with the Blues this week after a fee was agreed between the two clubs.

Skacel, 28, spent the second half of last season on loan at Hertha Berlin having joined Southampton in July 2006 from Scottish Premier League outfit Hearts.

"I see Rudi as a player that would add some extra quality to our squad," Magilton told the club's official website.

"He has been to the club this week and had a look around and he was impressed by the facilities here and our plans for the future.

"We would like him at this club and have made him a very good offer and now it's down to him. He has gone back to Prague to think over the move and we expect a decision very soon."