Blackburn Rovers have entered into talks with former Sunderland player Jack Rodwell, with a view to a free transfer according to the Daily Mail.

Rodwell was one of the highest earners at Sunderland, but barely kicked a ball last season and eventually had his contract terminated by new boss Jack Ross. He's since been without a club, but Tony Mowbray's side are now looking at giving him a route back into the game.

The 27-year old is a one time England international whose £10m move from Manchester City to Sunderland went sour. He played just three times last season as the Black Cats were relegated to League One.

Since leaving the Stadium of Light, it is reported he's trained with former club Everton to regain fitness whilst looking for a new club. He had been linked with a move to Greece, but that hasn't materialised and although talks are at an early stage, he is now looking to life in the Championship with Rovers.

The Verdict

There's definitely some value left in Rodwell, at 27 he should be in his prime, comfortable in a Premier League side's midfield. Instead, his career is a warning to young players on the moves not to make.

The international honours he once won are long gone, but the road to redemption is not. If he can get playing regular football for someone, he could yet shed the image of a cash-hungry reserve happy to sit in the stands and watch the money accrue.