According to Pete O’Rourke, Luton Town and Portsmouth are both interested in signing Cheltenham Town right back Arkell Jude-Boyd this summer.
His contract expires at the end of the season, so both clubs are looking to bring in the Saint Lucian international on a free transfer once his contract is up.
He has featured in 30 matches in League Two this season for Cheltenham, as well as featuring internationally.
He recently featured for Saint Lucia in the March international break, playing 87 minutes in a 6-1 loss to Azerbaijan.
The former QPR academy prospect is yet to agree to a contract extension with Cheltenham, and with this reported interest from higher up in the EFL, a move away looks likely this summer.
Jude-Boyd would actually fit an important role in Jack Wilshere’s system for Luton, as a senior right back is a position Luton lack depth in currently.
This is because Izzy Jones has been hailed as Wilshere’s first choice option for this position, however he has had an injury ridden season, alongside inconsistent form for the Hatters.
Aside from Jones however, Luton have no other natural right backs in the squad.
In recent weeks, Gideon Kodua has filled in this position, however Wilshere even said that he doesn’t know Kodua’s best position in Luton’s side.
Since joining permanently, Kodua has struggled for consistent minutes, mainly due to a change in systems from Wilshere.
Emilio Lawrence has starred at wing-back, however as a loanee it’s unlikely he will stay past summer.
Nigel Lonwijk has also played right back, however he is a natural centre back, which is a position Luton already lack numbers in.
Reuell Walters is still at the club, on loan at Blackpool, however he struggled for minutes when with the Hatters under Wilshere, meaning a new right back is likely.
Therefore, a move for Jude-Boyd this summer would be a smart option for the club, especially on a free transfer.
Jude-Boyd’s versatility is also something that could be important for the Hatters, as he can play in both a back four and back five as a wing back, something Jones struggles at.
This gives Wilshere more flexibility with team selection if he joins, as well as important depth.
Would you like to see Jude-Boyd join the club in summer, Luton Town fans?
