Rob Edwards targeted for immediate Premier League return if Kieran McKenna goes to Brighton

Ipswich Town could target Rob Edwards to take over if Kieran McKenna signs for Brighton, talkSPORT understands.

McKenna has already been eyed to replace Roberto de Zerbi, who will leave Brighton after the Premier League season comes to an end, talkSPORT further understands.

And Ipswich believe Luton Town boss Edwards could be the ideal candidate to replace the former Manchester United coach should he make the decision to move to the south coast.

The Hatters landed promotion to the Premier League last year against the odds through Edwards, who also did a commendable job trying to keep them up.

While Luton might have been relegated in the end, they ran Nottingham Forest close and they were praised for their style of play despite fighting without the funds available to top-flight sides.

McKenna led Ipswich to glory this year, landing back-to-back promotions to the Premier League from League One after an incredible run as manager.

There is every chance the Tractor Boys could lose their beloved boss, though, with Brighton making him a key candidate to replace De Zerbi, who sensationally decided to quit late on Saturday night.

The Italian is wanted by several sides including Juventus, AC Milan and Bayern Munich, while he has also been linked with Chelsea and United.

And Ipswich are keen to find a replacement as soon as possible as they prepare for their first campaign back in the top flight since 2002, if McKenna does depart.

Edwards has won 25 games out of 75 for Luton Town after taking over in November 2022 following a short stint with their rivals Watford.

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Having taken over at Vicarage Road in late May when the Championship season was being wrapped, he took charge of just 11 games where he oversaw three wins.

The 41-year-old, who has also coached England Under-16s and Forest Green Rovers, was axed as a result, making the switch to their local rivals and leading them to promotion that same season.

Injuries have been cruel to the Hatters this campaign, who have seen key players Elijah Adebayo, Jacob Brown, Marvelous Nakamba, Amari’i Bell and Dan Potts all miss significant chunks of the season.

Captain Tom Lockyer also collapsed on the pitch in December after suffering a cardiac arrest to end his season and potentially his career.