Blackburn are considering a move for Barnsely defender Liam Lindsay, as they look to strengthen their defensive options in the summer transfer window.

Following the release of Paul Downing at the end of the season, Rovers have only two senior central defenders - the in demand Darragh Lenihan, and 33-year-old captain Charlie Mulgrew on their books.

Natural left back Derrick Williams did however end the season alongside Lenihan in the centre of Rovers' defence, and is expected to carry out that role more often next year, although manager Tony Mowbray would still like to boost his options in that position.

And, according to The Lancashire Telegraph, one target that has been considered is Barnsley's Liam Lindsay.

The 23-year-old made 41 appearances and scored once in an impressive season as he helped the Tykes secure an immediate promotion back to the Championship, and the report claims that Barnsley's return to the second tier could make any deal potentially more difficult.

However, Lindsay does have 12 months remaining on his contract at Oakwell, and the Yorkshire side will be aware they may need to cash in if he won't sign a new deal.

The verdict

This would be a good signing for Rovers.

Lindsay has played an important part in helping secure Barnsley's return to the second tier this season, and at 23-years-old would still be one for the future.

The Tykes' promotion does seem to suggest this will a harder deal to complete given Rovers no longer have a divisional advantage over Barnsley, but that is the sort of thing Rovers will have to deal with if they are to harbour ambitions of climbing up the leagues.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.