Leeds United encouraged in race for Blackburn Rovers striker Sammie Szmodics

Leeds United have been encouraged to secure the services of Sammie Szmodics, with Peterborough United owner Darragh MacAnthony saying he guarantees promotion.

The 28-year-old has two years left on his contract at Ewood Park, but the Lancashire club are locked in talks to offer him improved terms whilst extending his stay to protect his value beyond this window.

The attacking midfielder, who often moves and operates like a second striker, scored 27 goals and registered four assists last season, meaning he played a role in 51% of Rovers’ goals.

Celtic, Ipswich, Everton, Leeds and West Ham are among a host of clubs credited with an interest, yet no one has made an official move as they await the outcome of fresh contract talks.

Speaking to the Posh podcast, MacAnthony shared that if he were Leeds, he would be going all out to snap up Szmodics to replace the talent the Whites could lose.

“He is pretty much guaranteeing you promotion because you’re buying the Golden Boot winner.”

The Posh owner has first-hand experience of Szmodics' contribution to a promotion-chasing side, as he was part of the Peterborough team that escaped League One in 2020/21.

He weighed in with 23 goal involvements across 39 matches, all from his preferred position in the centre of the park, as United finished second to secure promotion to the Championship.

Following that, the diminutive attacker seemed to struggle to adapt to the next level, scoring 11 goals in 71 appearances.

Despite links to a higher level, his record before last season may be enough to dissuade Premier League clubs, who typically fish in much deeper pools of talent than the English second tier.

The Whites, along with other suitors, will continue to await the outcome of Szmodics’ contract talks.