Luke Chambers in action against Ipswich in 2010

LUKE Chambers is the man to solve Town’s dire defensive problems.

The Nottingham Forest skipper is close to agreeing a switch to Portman Road as Paul Jewell pulls off something of a coup for a centre-back who has “Premier League qualities”.

That is the verdict of former Ipswich and Forest striker David Johnson who believes Paul Jewell has identified the right man to plug a leaky defence that shipped 82 goals in competitive matches last season.

Johnson, a regular visitor to the City Ground, said: “Luke would be a great signing for Ipswich.

“He may only be 6ft but he is good in the air, quick and strong. Two years ago, with Wes Morgan, he formed the best central defensive duo in the Championship while Ipswich had big problems at the back last year.

“He is someone who just gets on with the job and never lets any one down – he will be a seven out of ten every week.”

Chambers, 26, is said to have become disillusioned with Forest, where he has played more than 200 times after signing in 2007 from Northampton Town, as the East Midlands club’s takeover bid continues to be clouded in some mystery.

Jewell has quickly swooped and sources close to both clubs suggests a deal could be struck before Town report back for official pre-season training next Thursday.

News that Chambers might become Jewell’s second signing of the summer was met with a mixed reaction among Forest fans after the skipper endured a difficult time on the pitch a year after winning the club’s player of the year trophy.

Johnson admitted: “He did not have his best season last year, but I think he took the blame more than anyone else because he was skipper. He struggled a little and to be brutally honest, that might have put off some clubs.

“But he has Premiership qualities and as a free transfer, he will be one of the best signings around.”