Blackburn Rovers expected to sanction defender exit, EFL clubs facing MLS transfer battle

Blackburn Rovers are expected to let Leo Duru leave on loan later this month with EFL and MLS clubs keen, as per the Lancashire Telegraph.

Blackburn Rovers are primarily focused on strengthening their team during the winter transfer window in order to maintain their campaign for a play-off berth.
However, even before new players arrive, there is still the possibility that some will leave Ewood Park this month.
There are periphery players who could benefit from fresh starts, but there are also academy-bred teenagers looking to acquire professional experience elsewhere in the second half of the season.

Among the latter is excellent right-back Leo Duru, and it appears that Blackburn Rovers are eager to let him to leave.

According to the Lancashire Telegraph, Rovers plan to loan away the United States youth international. A move may not occur until later this month, but interest in the 19-year-old is already evident in the early parts of the window.

The League Two duo Carlisle United and Barrow were admirers in the summer and would like to do business again, while undisclosed MLS teams are also interested in Duru.

The next step for Duru

Manchester-born Duru has been a long-time member of Blackburn Rovers’ academy, playing at both the U18 and U21 levels.
Duru has played frequently at all levels and made two senior appearances for the Lancashire club, and there is a growing belief that the time has come for him to be tried in senior games on a consistent basis. A loan would provide precisely that.

Rovers, on the other hand, will undoubtedly exercise caution with their next move. An MLS move has obvious appeal, but EFL clubs like Carlisle United or Barrow will be able to keep a far closer check on Duru.

Who else could head out?

As previously stated, the focus will be on introducing new faces to Ewood Park, although some may leave this month as well.
Jake Garrett, who was recalled from Bristol Rovers, is a strong candidate for a new loan deal.

Youngsters like as Felix Goddard, Tom Atcheson, Kristi Montgomery, and Harrison Wood have already spent time on loan this season, so the Championship club may consider sending them out again to continue their development in first-team football.