BLACKBURN want to offer star man Sammie Szmodics a pay rise — but will sell him if there is no agreement.
Rovers have cash from sales and plan on keeping the 28-year-old attacking midfielder after he tore up the Championship last season.
Yet if Szmodics does not accept the deal, it may accelerate a summer sale.
Ewood Park chiefs value him at £15-20million after he topped the Championship scoring charts last term with 27 goals.
Szmodics has had the season of his life, hitting 31 goals in all competitions despite Blackburn struggling to 19th.
Everton have registered their interest in the Ireland international as current Toffees midfielder Amadou Onana looks set to join Aston Villa.
The Blues are also likely to lose Dominic Calvert-Lewin to Newcastle in a bid to break away from their ongoing financial difficulties amid the several fines and point deductions received under Profit and Sustainability rules last term.
Everton have been in need of a reliable goalscorer and Szmodics could be the solution to their attacking problems.
Premier League newcomers Ipswich are also eyeing a move for Szmodics after signing Liam Delap from Manchester City this week.
Szmodics signed a new deal in November 2023, tying him to Ewood Park until 2026, with the option of a further year.
EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERS
Szmodics previously told the No Tippy Tappy Football podcast: “I have two and a half years on my contract and so it is out of my hands.
“It’s a case of me enjoying my summer and seeing what’s out there. I don’t think anyone would begrudge me if a Premier League team came knocking.
“It is everyone’s dream to play in the Premier League. I don’t know if that opportunity will arise but I don’t think anyone could be blamed if they have the chance to play in the top flight.
“Look at Adam Wharton, he’s 20 and flying at Crystal Palace, he’s Blackburn through and through. I am 28 now and I want to test myself.”
Boss John Eustace is also looking for a new striker and is keen on QPR’s Lyndon Dykes.
