Blackburn Rovers have rejected multiple six-figure bids for Connor O'Riordan, raising the possibility of his departure this summer. The 22-year-old defender, who impressed during a loan spell at Doncaster Rovers last season, has attracted interest from clubs in Poland, the Netherlands, and England's League One. With Doncaster Rovers finishing 14th in League One last season (60 points, 17W-9D-20L), their defensive solidity was key to their mid-table finish, and O'Riordan played a significant role in that stability.
What happened during O'Riordan's loan spell?
Connor O'Riordan joined Doncaster Rovers on loan for the first half of the 2025/26 season, where he became a regular under manager Grant McCann. His performances in League One caught the eye, helping the team maintain a solid defensive record despite scoring 50 goals and conceding 69. However, Blackburn Rovers recalled him in January due to their own defensive struggles, limiting his game time at Ewood Park.
Why is Blackburn considering a sale?
Blackburn Rovers are open to selling O'Riordan but want to recoup at least the £500,000 they paid for him in January 2024. Manager Tony Mowbray acknowledges the defender's need for regular football, especially with competition for places in central defence. O'Riordan's time at Blackburn has been inconsistent, with limited opportunities due to injuries and tactical preferences. A summer move could benefit all parties, allowing him to secure more playing time elsewhere.
What's next for O'Riordan?
While no deal is imminent, O'Riordan is keen to play regularly next season. If Blackburn receive a suitable offer, he could join another League One side or move abroad. His future remains uncertain, but his loan success at Doncaster Rovers has shown his potential. Meanwhile, Blackburn continue to explore other transfer options, including a possible move for Daniel Jebbison, though manager Mowbray has played down those links.
