Blackburn Rovers are not in talks with Ipswich Town about the sale of Sam Szmodics, The Lancashire Telegraph understands.

Reports over the weekend claimed that Rovers were talking to the Tractor Boys about a potential £6million deal for him to leave Ewood Park.

Understandably, that was met with scepticism by Rovers fans given the figures quoted. Our sister title, The East Anglia Daily Times, reported that these reports were wide of the mark. The Lancashire Telegraph also understands that is the case.

Rovers are optimistic Szmodics will stay at the club this summer, whilst also acknowledging an opportunity to play at a higher level may present itself. A new contract hasn't been ruled out, as this publication reported last month.

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If the club were to receive an acceptable offer that would significantly enhance Szmodics' salary or playing level, they would not stand in his way. However, at the time of writing, that hasn't materialised and they are planning with him for the 2024/25 season.

Liam Cooper remains a player of interest. Rovers held talks with the defender's representatives over the weekend to try and agree a deal for the 32-year-old to sign.

As The Lancashire Telegraph revealed on Friday, Cooper is open to moving to Ewood Park and would be prepared to take a pay cut to complete the deal.

However, there are still details to be ironed out over the length of a potential contract. Cooper has been offered a year by Leeds United, with the understanding he won't be a regular.

Rovers have been very cautious about offering deals of more than 12 months to players with little resale value. The three-year deal offered to Daniel Ayala on sizeable wages has left a lasting scar. 

Length of terms was a main factor as to why Danny Batth, a similar age to Cooper, didn't join last summer. The fact Cooper hasn't played more than 25 league matches in the last four years is also a consideration. He's played 34 times in the last two seasons combined, albeit for varying reasons.

Yet what he would offer to Rovers in terms of experience and quality when fit is obvious. There is no doubt that Eustace would ideally like five centre-backs for the new campaign yet only Dom Hyam and Hayden Carter have any Championship experience out of his current options.

A deal for Kyle McFadzean has still not progressed. With Rovers now away in Austria, it seems increasingly likely he won't rejoin with other clubs looking at him. 

Another goalkeeper is on the list too. Interest in Tim Krul has cooled somewhat but it's clear Rovers want to sign an experienced goalkeeper to compete with Aynsley Pears. Asmir Begovic was linked over the weekend and fits the profile.

Trialist goalkeeper Jack Barrett travelled with Rovers and is expected to sign permanently. Felix Goddard has joined Dundalk on loan and one of the other Under-21 goalkeepers could do similar before the end of the window.