Ian Holloway is set to make his first signing as Blackpool boss, by snapping up Irish Under 21 international Billy Clarke.

The Ipswich front man who is out of contract at Portman Road this summer has agreed a two year deal with an option for a third year and subject to a satisfactory medical the Cork born forward will become a Blackpool player on 1^st July when his contract with Ipswich expires.

21-year-old Billy is a product of the Academy at Portman and he made his Tractor Boys debut in November 2005 against Cardiff City. Later that season, Clarke joined Colchester United on loan where he made six appearances. The following year Clarke made 12 starts for Ipswich and a further 20 as sub, the following season he made ten starts and 12 sub appearances before heading to Scotland to join Falkirk.

Following his stint with The Bairns, Clarke joined Darlington on a six month loan and netted nine times in 22 starts, on completion of his loan in the North East, Clarke moved up a division to join Northampton on a month's loan and marked his Cobblers debut with a hat trick against Crewe and caught the eye with a number of impressive performances.

The Cork born forward ended the season at Brentford and the livewire striker again caught the eye with his pace and hardworking attitude not to mention a return of 6 goals from eight games.