Blackburn Rovers have rejected yet another bid from Ipswich Town for talisman Sammie Szmodics, according to TWTD.
The Tractor Boys are desperate to secure the services of the 28-year-old before the start of the new season. Kieran McKenna has identified the attacking midfielder as a vital component for his squad as he prepares to embark on Premier League football.
Understandably, Blackburn are reluctant to lose their star man. The Lancashire-based side avoided relegation by the skin of their teeth last time around, mainly thanks to the form of Szmodics. He hit 27 goals, winning the Championship’s Golden Boot.
Sensing his form may attract potential suitors, Rovers took the smart decision to reward the ex-Peterborough United man with a new deal in November, tying him down until 2026. As a result, it is said that the club value their player at £20 million.
Ipswich arrived at the table last month with an opening offer of £6 million. This was rejected by the second tier outfit, and a second bid of £8 million plus £2 million in add-ons was made. However, it is claimed that this too has been dismissed.
Reports emerged in the week that Szmodics is keen to complete the move to Portman Road. As such, showdown talks are said to have taken place between the player, his agent and the club in order to force through the deal.
The Republic of Ireland international was absent from Blackburn’s friendly against Wigan Athletic last night. This prompted manager John Eustace to address the situation, hinting the player could remain at Ewood Park if a deal cannot be reached:
“He’s still in talks with Ipswich, I believe, so we’ll have to see what happens,” he told The Lancashire Telegraph.
“Listen, Sammie is a top player, I don’t want to lose him as a head coach but we’ll have to see what happens on that.”
“I am sure there is a deadline and I think we’re just waiting on that over the weekend, I think. He’s been training, he has been his bubbly self around the place. If he stays then he will be involved for sure.”
Writer’s View
There still seems an air of inevitability that this is a deal that will go through. Szmodics is reportedly keen on the move as he looks to try his hand at Premier League football for the first time in his career. However, Blackburn are right to stick to their guns.
It is unlikely that Ipswich will get anywhere near the £20 million the Championship outfit are demanding. Their latest bid totalled £10 million when add-ons were included, so they are getting closer. Expect Kieran McKenna’s side to return with a final offer, one which will be deemed more acceptable and is likely to get the transfer over the line.
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