Blackburn Rovers hope to fend off summer enquiries from interested parties by securing Jordan Rhodes to a bumper new contract.
The Scotland international is regarded as one of the best talents in the country outside of the Premier League, having bounced back in style since being deemed not good enough for Ipswich Town in 2009. He was soon amongst the goals when he joined Huddersfield Town, though, and this led to his move to Ewood Park in 2012.
Rovers paid around £8million for Rhodes, who has responded by netting 42 goals in 81 appearances in all competitions. 16 of these have come in the Championship this season, and this has allowed the Lancashire club to set their sights on a playoff place, as they are now in tenth spot and just six points behind Wigan Athletic in sixth.
During the winter window there was plenty of Premier League interest in the 24-year-old striker, who has also scored goals whilst on loan at Rochdale (2008) and Brentford (2009). Fulham, Swansea City and West Ham United were all said to have enquired about his availability in January, but Blackburn were able to retain his services.
According to The Telegraph, the club are looking to secure the Oldham-born hitman to a new five-and-a-half- year contract, as The Venky’s aim to persuade supporters of their intent to return the side to the top-flight. Rhodes already has three years left to run on his existing deal, but he can expect significantly improved terms to commit his future.
