Janoi Donacien: Ipswich Town bring in Accrington Stanley defender
Ipswich Town have signed Accrington Stanley defender Janoi Donacien on loan, with the move set to become permanent when his work permit comes through.
The two clubs have agreed an undisclosed fee for the 24-year-old which will be activated once his application for a work permit is granted.
The fee will be a record sale for Stanley.
Donacien, who was born in St Lucia, came through Aston Villa's academy and has spent time on loan at Tranmere Rovers, Wycombe Wanderers and Newport County in the past.
He played a key role in helping Stanley gain promotion to League One last season.
“Janoi has done well over the last couple of seasons. He defends very well one v one and gets up and down the pitch,” Ipswich manager Paul Hurst said.
“He is someone that again fits the profile of what we are looking for - someone who is hungry, has not played at this level before - and he’s at a good age that we feel there is progression there.
“He is versatile and has played right across the back four. He brings competition in all areas, particularly at full-back and that gives us options.
“We want that right across the squad, that competition for places and we’re delighted to have him here.”
Accrington have confirmed they will spend the money received to buy new changing rooms.
“Janoi is a great lad, he is a model professional and he did what it said on the tin," said Accrington chairman Andy Holt.
“He came here, grafted, helped us win the league title and fully deserves his opportunity. That’s what we are about at Accrington.
“The fee means a great deal to us, and for us, it’s going into new changing rooms.”