Stephen Warnock insists that Blackburn Rovers should aim to secure a minimum of £10m for Sammie Szmodics, as he discussed in an exclusive interview with Football League World.
Szmodics had a standout season in 2023/24, stepping up to fill the void left by Ben Brereton Diaz’s departure. His crucial goals against Leeds United and Leicester City played a key role in helping Blackburn secure important points to avoid relegation.
However, the club could face challenges as Szmodics is likely to attract substantial interest and bids before the summer transfer window closes. Despite the sale of Adam Wharton to Crystal Palace earlier in the year, fans may be concerned about the possibility of losing their star player.
Ipswich Town has been linked with a £6m move for the 28-year-old, but Warnock believes this valuation is too low considering Szmodics’ impact on Blackburn. He emphasized the need for the club to demand a higher fee, especially given his contract situation and the financial landscape of the Championship.
Warnock stressed the importance of retaining Szmodics, as losing him for a meager sum could severely impact Blackburn’s chances in the upcoming season. The club must prioritize holding onto their key players to ensure their competitiveness in the league.
Ultimately, it remains to be seen how Blackburn will handle potential offers for Szmodics, but Warnock’s advice is clear: they should stand firm and demand a significant fee for the talented forward.
