Blackburn Rovers consider budget deal for ex-Leeds United frontman

Blackburn Rovers may still be searching for a permanent replacement for Michael O’Neill, but preparations for the summer transfer window already appear to be gathering pace at Ewood Park.

With uncertainty surrounding the futures of key players such as Ryan Alebiosu and Todd Cantwell, who could potentially be sold in the coming months, Blackburn are believed to be actively exploring reinforcements ahead of next season. Any departures would likely force the club to strengthen key attacking areas, particularly as they aim to remain competitive in the Championship.

According to transfer insider Alan Nixon, Blackburn have been keeping a close eye on former Leeds United attacker Sam Greenwood during his spell in Poland with Pogoń Szczecin.

Greenwood made the move abroad last summer after struggling to establish himself at Leeds, following back-to-back Championship loan spells with Middlesbrough F.C. and Preston North End F.C.. His time at Leeds ultimately produced limited returns, with the versatile forward scoring just once across 37 senior appearances for the Yorkshire club.

However, the 24-year-old showed more encouraging signs during his loan spell at Preston, where he contributed seven goals and three assists across 45 appearances during the 2024/25 campaign. Those numbers suggested Greenwood still possesses attacking quality and could thrive in the right system despite inconsistencies in front of goal.

Since moving to Poland, Greenwood’s impact has been more modest, registering three goals and two assists with only one Ekstraklasa fixture remaining this season. Reports at the time of his transfer suggested Pogoń Szczecin paid a fee in the region of £3.4 million to secure his services, a figure that may prove difficult for Blackburn to match outright.

Nixon claims Blackburn’s interest will likely depend on whether a deal can be struck at a more affordable price, with the club reportedly monitoring the situation closely “if the price is right.” Financial considerations are expected to play a major role in any negotiations, especially given Blackburn’s careful approach in the transfer market.

Another key factor could be the appointment of a new manager. Recruitment priorities may shift depending on who arrives at Ewood Park and how much influence they are given over transfer decisions, meaning Greenwood’s suitability could ultimately depend on the incoming boss’ tactical plans.

From Blackburn’s perspective, Greenwood’s versatility could make him an appealing target. Having operated as both a striker and an attacking midfielder during his time in the Championship, while also showing an ability to play in wider attacking positions, he offers flexibility that many clubs value.

There are also suggestions that Greenwood himself could be open to returning to English football. Nixon reported that the former Preston loanee may be tempted by a move back to the Championship, potentially cutting short his stay in Poland after just one season despite signing a three-year contract, which also includes the option of an additional year.