This article is part of Football League World’s ‘The Verdict‘ series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Blackburn Rovers are facing a key transfer window in January where they could do with adding some quality to their squad in order to help them maintain their push for the play-offs.

Football League World believes that Blackburn are one of a number of clubs that are watching Phil Jones’ current situation at Manchester United ahead of a potential move for him in the winter window.

That comes with the defender out of contract at the end of next season and there is the possibility of an early exit from Old Trafford to help get his career back on track.

Rovers are going to face competition from elsewhere if they are to re-sign their former defender, with The Sun reporting recently that both Watford and Newcastle United could be keen on Jones. While Wayne Rooney may also make a move for him if Derby County are permitted to sign players in the New Year.

So, with Blackburn now interested in Jones, we asked some of our FLW writers whether they feel a return to Ewood Park would be the right move...

Ned Holmes

I can't see this one being a sensible move for Blackburn if I'm honest. 

Were Jones to return to Ewood Park and rediscover anywhere near his best form, he would clearly be an asset for Tony Mowbray's side but for me there is just so many reasons why this move should be avoided.

First of all, Blackburn need to add reinforcements in multiple areas and though Man United would likely pay a large part of the defender's wages if it's a loan deal, he currently earns £130,000 per week, so Rovers would likely still have to pay a fair bit.

That money could be better spent on multiple players. in my eyes.

Add to that the fact he's barely played in the past two years and has had severe injury issues in the past and this just looks far too big a risk.

 

 

Billy Mulley 

Phil Jones' lack of first-team football at Manchester United in recent seasons makes it a real surprise that he is still there. 

A move away from Old Trafford certainly needs to happen in January, and I can see the logic of Blackburn going in for him. 

Rovers have been plagued with defensive issues this season, and during the early stages of the campaign, Daniel Ayala and Darragh Lenin were the club's only options. 

The aforementioned duo have put together a strong defensive partnership so far this season, and Jan Paul van Hecke has shown in glimpses what he is capable of, but the leadership, experience and defensive competence that Jones would bring will not be ignored. 

Plus, having another centre-back within the ranks will allow Tony Mowbray to be more flexible and be more confident with operating with five at the back. 

Vastly experienced defenders who have joined the Championship from Premier League clubs have shone in recent seasons, and for that reason, Jones would be a great addition in my eyes. 

Chris Thorpe 

He certainly has a lot to prove after being out of the game for quite a while and it’s clear he needs to put his Man United nightmare behind him.

He made his name at Blackburn prior to the big move to Old Trafford and I think he would be keen on a return to Ewood Park.

Jones isn’t necessarily a player that they need right now but he would provide a proven quality backup option when required.

However, he will inevitably want to be a starter wherever he ends up, so that could throw a spanner in the works for Rovers.

It would certainly an intriguing, yet risky move for all involved.