Blackburn transfer state of play and Connor O'Riordan latest

The Lancashire Telegraph reported last week that Rovers had triggered the £500,000 release clause in his contract.

O'Riordan is keen to join Rovers but there are still negotiations to be concluded around the structure of the deal. It's hoped that the half a million-pound fee can be paid in instalments rather than one lump sum.

That would be a boost for Rovers as they look to spread the cost, with cashflow still a consideration because of Venky's issues releasing funds from India.

READ MORE: Date set for Venky's application for Rovers funding

The Irish Under-21 international has continued to feature for Crewe in their recent League Two matches while the discussions are ongoing.

Preston North End and Blackpool are amongst the other interested clubs looking at O'Riordan, should a deal not be agreed. However, there is still an expectation that he will become a Blackburn player in January.

O'Riordan would be a welcome addition for Jon Dahl Tomasson's squad with James Hill set to depart. The Lancashire Telegraph exclusively revealed that Bournemouth intend to recall the defender next week, when a clause in his contract becomes active.

It's unclear whether the 21-year-old will be involved for Rovers this weekend for their FA Cup tie against Cambridge United. Hill is settled at Ewood Park but the Premier League side want him back to cover for injuries. He wouldn't be able to join another club this season, having already played for two this campaign.

Rovers are hopeful of strengthening Tomasson's squad further this month. It's understood the club are hopeful of adding three new faces to the squad to bolster the head coach's options.

It's also hoped that long-term absentees Ryan Hedges, Sam Gallagher and Aynsley Pears will be back at the end of January, with Joe Rankin-Costello and Tyrhys Dolan to follow behind them.

John Buckley has been recalled from his loan at Sheffield Wednesday and should be available in March after surgery on his shoulder.