As part of a discussion by the Rovers' Jury, Ryan Hildred identified Sam Smith of Wrexham, a 27-year-old from England, as a potential target. Hildred recalled Smith's performance at Ewood Park this season as one of the best he had seen from an opposing striker. According to Hildred, Smith caused Blackburn's defence significant problems by running the channels and getting in behind, and also scored a goal. Hildred described Smith as being fully a Championship-level striker who would be suited to the challenge of keeping a team in the division. Hildred also stated his belief that the transfer was not a realistic possibility, as he was fairly sure Smith would not be available, though he hoped the club would sign a striker with similar attributes. Smith joined Wrexham in January 2025, is under contract until June 2028, and his current Transfermarkt market value is €900k.