Blackburn Rovers are eyeing up a move for Legia Warsaw centre-back Steve Kapuadi ahead of Valérien Ismaël’s first full season in charge.
The 27-year-old has emerged as a summer target as Rovers look to reinforce their back line before the new Championship campaign.
Ismaël Eyes Defensive Upgrade With Kapuadi Move
Rovers are considering a bid for Kapuadi, with reports in Poland suggesting a fee between €2m (£1.7m) and €2.5m (£2.1m) could be required to prise the defender away from Legia Warsaw. That figure is understood to be double the amount previously expected for the DR Congo international, reflecting his growing influence in the Ekstraklasa.
Kapuadi joined Legia in 2023 and has since made 78 appearances in all competitions, contributing eight goals from central defence. A strong aerial presence and composed in possession, he played a crucial role in helping the club secure the Polish Cup and remains one of their standout performers despite the team’s financial uncertainty.
Legia are currently in a precarious position off the pitch, with serious financial constraints reportedly leading to delayed wage payments in the spring. According to Polish outlet Przegląd Sportowy, the club’s sporting department has been “paralysed” by budget restrictions, which could accelerate the need to sell key players like Kapuadi.
However, any deal will come at a cost. Former club Wisła Płock are due 35% of any transfer fee, meaning Legia’s profit from the deal will be significantly reduced. That clause is believed to be giving sporting director Michał Żewłakow pause for thought, with the club reluctant to lose a defensive linchpin unless the offer is right.
Kapuadi’s career began in Belgium with Zulte Waregem before spells at Gent, Inter Bratislava, and AS Trenčín. He moved to Poland in 2022 to join Wisła Płock before earning a step up to Legia a year later. He has also been capped once by DR Congo, further adding to his international pedigree.
For Rovers, the addition of Kapuadi would bring valuable experience and physicality to a defence that conceded 66 goals in the Championship last term. Ismaël has been vocal about strengthening key areas this summer and is looking to build on the foundation laid during his initial half-season at Ewood Park.
Writer’s View
Blackburn’s pursuit of Steve Kapuadi makes a lot of sense. He’s entering his prime, boasts over 100 senior appearances across multiple European leagues, and brings both defensive stability and goal threat. The biggest question will be the finances—can Rovers meet Legia’s demands and still represent value for money?
Given Legia’s need to sell, there may yet be room for negotiation, especially with Kapuadi seemingly ready for a new challenge. If Ismaël wants to build a more resilient side, this move could be a key piece of the puzzle.
