Blackburn Rovers already eyeing Watford FC transfer swoop for January 2027 | OneFootball

Although the transfer window has only just closed, Rovers already have their eyes on their next target.

The transfer window may have only just shut, but it seems that has not stopped Blackburn Rovers from planning their next swoop.

It was a relatively quiet summer transfer window for Rovers, with Gady Beyuku, Moussa Baradji, Jayden Fevrier and Sam Morsy the only permanent additions.

On the pitch, it has been a mixed start for Tony Mowbray's side, taking four points from Wolves and Middlesbrough in the opening two Championship games before a run of four without a win in all competitions.

While it is four months away, the Lancashire club are ready to act in the January transfer window and have pinned a Watford regular to their hit list.

Blackburn Rovers prepare move for Watford's Marc Bola

Action Images

Blackburn were a tricky one to predict this season after narrowly avoiding relegation last term and Mowbray's arrival, and they have maintained that unpredictability on the pitch.

The club's only clean sheet came in the goalless draw with Lincoln City, and shoring up the defence is something that is being prioritised in the next window.

Rovers will make a move for the Hornets' Marc Bola in January, with Mowbray a big fan of the left-back after watching him regularly at Middlesbrough, according to Alan Nixon.

Nixon adds that Blackburn's boss teed up a move for the 28-year-old in the summer window, but it broke down due to a long-term hamstring injury.

Moreover, Bola should be fit in a couple of months and may be keen on a move to the Lancashire club, who failed to land another left-back in a chaotic final few days.

Why Blackburn Rovers' interest in Marc Bola is odd timing for Watford

Action Images

Bola only arrived at Vicarage Road from Turkish outfit Samsunspor last summer on a free transfer and became a regular starter, making 37 Championship appearances for Watford.

In August, the Englishman put pen to paper on a three-year contract extension with the Hornets, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2030.

“I’m happy and grateful to extend my stay with Watford,” Bola told the club website.

“There’s still a lot to be done, both personally and as a team, and I’m willing to give 100 per cent in whatever I’m asked to do.

“I’m fully committed, and I can’t wait for the Championship season to start.”

Of course, it is important not to take footballers' comments at face value, but given how recently the defender signed a contract and outlined his commitment to the club, it would be weird if he were to follow that up with a move to a Championship rival at the next opportunity.

How did Marc Bola perform last season for Watford?

Action Images

Bola enjoyed an encouraging first season at Vicarage Road, scoring two and assisting three in 39 appearances in all competitions.

Indeed, his all-round game was an asset to an inconsistent side, with his attacking, defensive and possession statistics all making for positive reading.

The 28-year-old made 154 clearances last term, ranking him in the top six per cent of Championship left-backs, while he also ranked in the top five per cent for aerial duels won, according to Fotmob.

Bola also showed impetus going forward, with his 35 shots ranking him in the top eight per cent of players in his position, while his 65 touches in the opposition box placed him in the top eight per cent.

Blackburn need to strengthen at both ends of the pitch, and it is clear why Bola is a target, but it may take some swaying for Watford to part with a player who only recently signed a new contract.