Blackburn Rovers amongst several clubs interested in deal Sunderland man

Blackburn Rovers are one of many clubs interested in Sunderland midfielder Alan Browne, Lancashire Telegraph understands.

Tony Mowbray is yet to bolster his squad this summer, with Moussa Baradji's loan becoming a permanent deal the only business conducted so far.

Central midfield has been an area of concern amongst Rovers fans, having lost Sondre Tronstad this summer. Though they have plenty of options with Adam Forshaw, Baradji, Sidnei Tavares and Kristi Montgomery, many feel it is an area that must be strengthened.

Rovers are understood to have Browne amongst their potential midfield targets, having also held an interest last summer. Unsurprisingly, they are far from alone, with a host of Championship clubs having already enquired too.

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Browne spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Middlesbrough and impressed. The 31-year-old was involved in 38 matches for the promotion-chasing Teessiders, starting 26 times including the play-off final.

The ex-Preston North End captain has a wealth of Championship experience and would bring lots of desirable qualities to Rovers' midfield ranks. Though his time at Sunderland did not overlap with Mowbray's, it's easy to see why he would fit the head coach's style.

However, a deal will not be easy to do by any means. Rovers face plenty of competition from suitors who may be able to offer a better financial package to Sunderland. A loan deal feels most likely, with Browne still having one year left on the lucrative three-year contract he signed in the summer of 2024.

Any agreement would also require a level of patience. Browne is currently part of Sunderland's tour of the US as part of their pre-season preparations. The Black Cats are said to not be in a rush to release Browne, though it's accepted he will likely play his football away from the Stadium of Light this season. He did not join Boro until deadline day last summer despite it always being likely he would move on.

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It would be an ambitious move from Rovers and in all likelihood, a difficult one to pull off. But he is amongst their midfield target, as and when they decide to bolster that position.

Location may be a factor that would work in Rovers' favour. He spent more than a decade at Preston, during which time he made 414 appearances for the club.