Connor O'Riordan's loan move has started.

Tony Mowbray has confirmed that, following conversations described as honest, Connor O'Riordan is not part of his plans and will be permitted to leave. Mowbray is open to either a permanent or a loan exit for O'Riordan. Offers have been received for the player, but they have not been sufficient to persuade Blackburn Rovers to accept a bid. The Championship side wants to recoup a fee of approximately the £500,000 they paid to sign him. It is reported that O'Riordan desires game time and wishes to leave before the transfer window closes. It has been mentioned that League One is considered an ideal destination and that some clubs in League Two with significant financial resources may be interested.

Blackburn Rovers have rejected several six-figure bids for Connor O'Riordan from clubs in Poland. Rovers are open to selling O'Riordan but want to recover at least the £500k fee they paid for him two and a half years ago. All parties accept that O'Riordan is at an age where he needs regular football. Mowbray is understood to be open to keeping the player, but Rovers will not prevent him from leaving if a suitable offer arrives. Nothing is said to be advanced at this stage, and his future has not yet been decided.

The formation the new head coach wants to play is a factor. Rovers need to sign another senior, Championship-proven defender. O'Riordan is a 22-year-old Ireland U21 international with 6 caps who might have limited opportunities due to the number of players. He joined the club in January 2024 and made 5 appearances in the Championship last season, along with 19 in League One. He might get a chance if the team plays with a back five, but a departure is possible given his age and limited opportunities. His current market value is estimated by Transfermarkt to be €600k.