After missing out on a top-six finish in the Championship this term, Blackburn Rovers will be hoping to go one step further next season under Tony Mowbray.

Mowbray’s side finished 11th in the Sky Bet Championship table in 2019/20, picking up just one win from their final four games which derailed their bid of a top-six finish.

Next season, Rovers will be hoping to go one step further, and Mowbray will undoubtedly be looking to strengthen his squad this summer.

This summer, clubs won’t be splashing the cash like previous years due to current events, and Blackburn, like others, will have to recruit wisely and think carefully about finances before making any new additions.

This could potentially mean that Mowbray looks to scour the free-agent market, with plenty of proven Championship players still available to sign for free.

Here, we take a look at seven who could be useful for Blackburn...

After saying goodbye to Danny Graham upon the expiry of his contract, the addition of a new, experienced number nine could be useful.

Chris Martin scored 12 goals for Derby County in all competitions this term, but he now finds himself without a club after being let go by the Rams.

He’s a proven goalscorer at this level, and at the age of 31, he still has a lot to offer.

Ibe is also on the lookout for a new club after being released by AFC Bournemouth.

The former Liverpool winger would add real pace and energy to Mowbray’s side.

Richie Smallwood’s Ewood Park departure could lead to Mowbray bolstering his midfield, and Kevin Stewart could be a great addition.

The 26-year-old is reportedly wanted by Middlesbrough and Swansea following his Hull City departure, and he’d add defensive steel in the middle of the park.

Another former Hull player who could add real industry and creativity in midfield is Jackson Irvine.

Blackburn struggled without Bradley Dack at times last season, and they need someone who can come in and add creativity when the chips are down.

Ayala is a leader and would be a shrewd capture.

Blackburn need another centre-half following Tosin Adarabioyo’s return to Manchester City, and Ayala is a 29-year-old who has thrived at this level for Middlesbrough before.

Sarr was one of Charlton’s more impressive players as they were relegated back down to League One this term, but the defender deserves a chance to stay in the Championship.

He’s powerful, strong and versatile and contributed to eight goals in the Championship in 2019/20.

Gestede has endured disappointing spells at Aston Villa and Middlesbrough since leaving Ewood Park in 2015.

A return to the club who he scored 35 goals in 72 appearances for could help him reignite his form.

Quiz: Can you remember the score from each of these 12 Blackburn Rovers matches from the 2019/20 season?