Ipswich continue their pursuit of £7million-rated Blackburn forward forward Sammie Szmodics despite having a bid rejected - as Kieran McKenna looks to strengthen his squad for their Premier League return

Ipswich Town are maintaining their interest in Blackburn Rovers forward Sammie Szmodics despite having a bid knocked back by the Championship side. 

Former Peterborough United star Szmodics has been earmarked as a top target for the Tractor Boys, with Leeds also said to be interested.

Szmodics enjoyed the most prolific campaign of his career at Ewood Park last season, finishing top of the Championship scoring charts with 27 goals in 44 appearances.

In addition to winning the second-tier's Golden Boot, Szmodics was also named in the Championship Team of the Season. 

His form earned him his first senior international appearance for the Republic of Ireland as he started their 0-0 draw with Belgium in March.

Szmodics has less than two years remaining on his current Blackburn deal that is set to expire in the summer of 2026. 

Kieran McKenna is intent on strengthening his side as they prepare for a first top flight season in more than two decades.

The club had been pursuing a move for Hull's Jaden Philogene and had agreed an £18m deal before the England youth international opted to return to Aston Villa earlier this month.