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 interested in a summer move for Liverpool central defender Ben Davies, as per a report from Sky Sports’ Transfer Centre (10/07, 11:00).
The Lancashire outfit will have to battle it out with Stoke City, according to the report, whilst Middlesbrough have also shown previous interest.
Davies spent the last campaign on loan with Sheffield United, featuring 21 times for the Blades as they missed out on promotion after making the play-offs.
Progressing through the academy ranks at Preston North End, Davies made over 150 appearances at first-team level for the Lilywhites.
Three of our writers here at FLW have shared their thoughts regarding Blackburn's interest in the Liverpool defender...
Billy Mulley
Quality and progressive left-footed central defender are in short supply throughout the football pyramid, with Ben Davies standing as one of the best options that could be playing their football in the Championship next season.
Putting in some impressive displays at Sheffield United last season, and progressing at an excellent rate during his time with Preston North End, Davies is someone who could thrive at the top-end of the second tier next season, which is where Rovers will believe they will operate.
A good passer of the ball, and able to bring the ball forward and start attacks, he is also a very competent defender who wins the majority of his ground and aerial duels.
Davies would be an excellent addition at Blackburn next season and would help achieve balance across the backline.
Ned Holmes
This would be a superb signing.
Obviously, Ben Davies' Premier League move has not worked out but despite not playing a single game for Liverpool, he is still an excellent centre-back at Championship level.
He can be relied upon defensively while his ability in possession is a real asset, which should make him a good replacement for Darragh Lenihan.
Lenihan's exit this summer was a blow but signing Davies could be the key to ensuring it can quickly be forgotten about.
The added bonus for Rovers supporters is that it will frustrate Preston North End fans.
Carla Devine
Ben Davies would be a strong signing for Blackburn Rovers in preparation for a promotion push in the Championship next season. He has shown his quality in his career so far and there’s no doubt he would be able to add to the Rovers squad.
Not only is Davies a strong and reliable defender, but he has also shown that he has the ability to make progressive moves up the pitch too showing the ways in which he can assist his side next season.
The 29-year-old is also an adaptable player who can suit in different positions at the back and formations meaning his new manager would be able to take advantage of this and be reassured he could include him in the side.