Ipswich Town have entered into negotiations with Blackburn Rovers over the potential transfer of Sammie Szmodics, according to TWTD.
Interest in the 28-year-old was widely expected this summer after his stunning goal scoring antics last season. As Rovers struggled to maintain their Championship status, Szmodics showed his class by netting 27 league goals. This saw him land the division’s Golden Boot award and a place in the EFL Team of the Season.
Blackburn made the smart decision to extend the attacking midfielder’s contract last November, tying him down until 2026 with the option of an additional year. This puts the Lancashire outfit in a strong position when it comes to negotiating his potential exit.
Ipswich look to be the first to arrive at the table, with reports claiming that a £6 million fee is being discussed. This would represent a big profit on the £1.8 million they paid Peterborough United for his services in 2022.
The Tractor Boys are about to embark on their first season back in the Premier League in 22 years. Manager Kieran McKenna pulled off the seemingly impossible by guiding them into the top tier, and his signings thus far have seen him pluck for players who have excelled in the Championship.
Hull City centre-back Jacob Greaves plus former Tigers’ loanee Liam Delap have both arrived at Portman Road, whilst they were also keen on Jaden Philogene. They have also brought in Omari Hutchinson on a permanent deal after he excelled at the club last season.
Szmodics returned to action last weekend in Blackburn’s first pre-season friendly of the summer. Starting in the win over Accrington Stanley, the Republic of Ireland international was forced off just before half time. He was pictured leaving the stadium in a protective boot, although manager John Eustace later confirmed that the injury wasn’t expected to be anything serious.
Elsewhere, Everton have also been linked with a move, although Ipswich appear to be leading the chase.
Writer’s View
It seemed inevitable that Blackburn were going to have to field enquiries for their talisman at some point over the summer. They may have been hoping for more than the £6 million being discussed, but his age will play a factor here. Still, it would bolster John Eustace’s coffers, especially when factoring in the £18 million they received for Adam Wharton earlier this year.
Szmodics has never played Premier League football, so it will be interesting to see how he performs in the top tier. However, there is no doubting that his form at Ewood Park has made him deserving of the opportunity. The big question is, should he depart, how to Blackburn recover the goals he brought to the team last season?
