Talks over Szmodics transfer continue

Ipswich and Blackburn remain in talks over Ireland forward Sammie Szmodics.

Rovers, though, are becoming frustrated with how long negotiations are taking for their star man, having started over two weeks ago, while the Tractor Boys are not prepared to pay an inflated fee.

With Rovers’ Championship season starting at home to Derby in two weeks the issue is disrupting their preparations and there is a sense the matter needs to be resolved soon.

The clubs are yet to agree on a fee, with Ipswich having had multiple bids rejected for last season’s 27-goal Championship top scorer and both parties remain apart in their valuation.

Colchester-born Szmodics has been open about his desire to play in the Premier League.

A move to Suffolk would give the 28-year-old the chance to live closer to home.

Szmodics’ goals kept Blackburn in the Championship as they finished 19th, three points above the relegation zone.

He signed a new deal until 2026 in November, leaving Rovers in a strong bargaining position.