Blackburn Rovers are keen to bolster their defensive department this summer and are weighing up a move for a Championship centre-back, according to the latest reports.
It was reported by journalist Alan Nixon on Thursday afternoon that the Lancashire outfit have spoken to Liam Cooper’s representatives over a possible deal to bring him to Ewood Park this summer. The Scotland international’s contract recently expired at Leeds United after ten years in West Yorkshire, making him available on a free transfer.
However, Nixon also stated that Blackburn Rovers have other targets in mind should they miss out on the experienced centre-back’s signature, including Hull City centre-half Sean McLoughlin who could be available for around £500,000.
The Irish central defender has been a squad player over the past few seasons at the MKM Stadium, starting just two games in England’s second tier for the Tigers in the previous campaign when former manager Liam Rosenior was in charge.
However, speaking in a recent interview with Hull Live, McLoughlin admitted that the rumours are nothing more than speculation and that he is happy at Hull City ahead of his sixth season with the club.
“You can’t really control what’s said on Twitter or online or any of that stuff, so you just focus on yourself, getting in the best shape possible and training well,” McLoughlin said.
“I’ve got a contract for another two years and I’ve been here for five years now.
“Me and my wife live over in Hull and my family really enjoy coming over, so I am happy here and I think it’s just about what’s best for me,” he continued.
“It’s just making sure that I’m in good shape, training well and what happens, happens.”
Blackburn are quite short at the back at the moment due to the injury to Scott Wharton, meaning John Eustace may be looking for another option in defence, preferably someone with Championship experience. McLoughlin slots into this category.
Writer’s View
If Blackburn Rovers fail to win the race for Cooper’s signature, as Leeds United have reportedly tabled a one-year contract offer for the experienced defender, then McLoughlin would not be a terrible option to strengthen the backline.
Furthermore, the Irishman is left-footed which could offer Eustace flexibility defensively. While he himself has admitted that he is happy with Hull, perhaps Rovers could offer him a boost in his wages to move to Ewood Park by the end of the transfer window.
