Brentford and Luton Town have reportedly learned of Blackburn Rovers' asking price for leading marksman Sammie Szmodics.
Following the departure of last season's top goalscorer Ben Brereton Diaz to Spanish giants Villarreal in the summer, the 28-year-old has stepped up to the attacking plate at Ewood Park.
Szmodics has found the net on 25 occasions in just 43 Championship appearances, meaning that he leads the division's Golden Boot race ahead of Southampton's Adam Armstrong.
Since securing a switch from League One outfit Peterborough United in the summer of 2022, the attacker has made 88 appearances for the Lancashire club, scoring 38 goals.
In the midst of his stellar performances at club level during 2023-24, Szmodics received his maiden call-up for the Republic of Ireland in March, featuring in friendlies against Switzerland and Belgium.
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Blackburn demanding big fee for Luton, Brentford-linked Szmodics
According to The Sun, Blackburn have revealed their asking price for Szmodics ahead of the summer transfer window, with a number of Premier League clubs keen on the player.
The report claims that Rovers will be looking for up to £20m for the 28-year-old, who has netted over 30 goals in all competitions during 2023-24.
It is understood that John Eustace's side are realistically hoping to secure anywhere between £15m and £20m for Szmodics following his impressive displays this term.
Blackburn are no strangers to selling high-profile players in recent times, with midfielder Adam Wharton moving to Crystal Palace for an initial £18m during the January trading point.
The 20-year-old has slotted immediately into the Eagles' engine room, thriving under the leadership of Oliver Glasner at Selhurst Park so far.
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Sheffield United, Celtic keen on Szmodics?
In addition to Brentford and Luton, it is believed that Premier League strugglers Sheffield United are considering a move for Blackburn marksman Szmodics.
Following a 5-1 hammering at St James' Park to Newcastle United on Saturday, the Blades are unable to avoid relegation to the Championship in the remaining weeks of the campaign.
As showcased this season, Szmodics would provide Chris Wilder's men with a serious attacking threat in the second tier, with the Irishman scoring freely despite Blackburn fighting off relegation.
After playing out a goalless draw with Coventry City at Ewood Park, Szmodics and company need to avoid defeat at Leicester City to guarantee safety in the second tier on the final day.
Carter White
