Liam Cooper is set for a surprise move to CSKA Sofia after talks with Blackburn Rovers this summer.

The centre-back was a transfer target for John Eustace and the recruitment team but a deal couldn't be agreed. Rovers instead re-signed Kyle McFadzean and picked up Danny Batth as a free agent.

Cooper initially had an offer on the table from Leeds United, a one-year deal, with the understanding that he'd be the backup for Daniel Farke. However, the 33-year-old is desperate for regular football and so didn't return to Elland Road.

Rovers were keen to bring Cooper in but a financial package couldn't be agreed. As revealed by The Lancashire Telegraph in July, an appearance-incentivised deal was discussed but the terms weren't right for both parties.

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With a move to Ewood off the table, Cooper then seemed set for Hull City, having been spotted at their 0-0 draw with Hull City against Millwall on August 24. That deal then fell through too, leaving him a free agent after the transfer deadline had passed.

He's now set for a shock change of scenery with a deal agreed for him to join CSKA Sofia in Bulgaria. Cooper is set to sign a two-year deal with the team that finished third in the Bulgarian top flight last term.

Other Championship clubs made offers for Cooper but finding the right salary, with the security of a two-year deal was not the easiest of challenges. 

Having spent a decade at Leeds United, he will now be swapping West Yorkshire for a very different climate. Sofia have made a poor start to the 2024/25 season, as they sit second from bottom after six matches.

Rovers are not expected to add to their squad from the free-agent market unless a long-term injury strikes in a weaker area. They named a 23-man squad with the English Football League, which leaves them two spaces to register more players if the opportunity presents itself.