Blackburn identify transfer target ahead of impending exit
Blackburn Rovers are interested in signing Tim Krul to replace Leopold Wahlstedt, The Lancashire Telegraph understands.
The Rovers goalkeeper is set to complete a move back to Scandinavia after only one year at Ewood Park.
There has been plenty of interest in the 24-year-old, as reported last month, and a deal with Danish side AGF has been agreed. Rovers will recoup the fee they paid to sign Wahlstedt from Odds BK last summer.
Rovers will therefore press ahead to sign a new goalkeeper to compete with Aynsley Pears for the new season.
READ MORE: ROVERS KEEN TO ADDRESS TWO-YEAR PROBLEM IN TRANSFER WINDOW
John Ruddy was linked with a move to Rovers, which would have reunited him with head coach John Eustace. However, he has signed for Newcastle United where he’s likely to be their third-choice goalkeeper.
Luton Town’s Krul was reported as another alternative target for Rovers and The Lancashire Telegraph understands that is accurate.
The 36-year-old signed for The Hatters last summer and was their number two goalkeeper in the Premier League, behind former Rovers shot-stopper Thomas Kaminski.
Krul only made two appearances for Luton last season, both in the Carabao Cup. It’s unclear whether Luton would be willing to sanction a move but given his lack of minutes last term, it’s something the goalkeeper could push for.
Eustace is keen to add more experience and leaders into the Rovers dressing room. He would certainly be doing that with Krul, who has been part of three Championship-winning sides.
The Netherlands international, capped 15 times, was part of Newcastle United’s successful team in 2009/10 and then Norwich City’s title-winners in 2018/29 and 2020/21.
Despite a lack of minutes, Krul insisted he is still hungry to be playing regularly.
“Throughout my career, I’ve been quite lucky to start a lot of games, but in football, there’s only one decision for a goalkeeper,” he told Luton Today in January.
“I’m still hungrier than ever to be ready as that’s a goalkeeper, you can be called up tomorrow if something happens. I’ve been thankful to have had so many games at the highest level, we’re still at the highest level and if I’m called upon, I’m ready.
“It’s been a good fight between us (Kaminski). He’s kept up the levels and he’s one of the reasons why we’re doing so well as a club. When I signed for Luton I had a really good conversation with the manager.
“He said listen, if Thomas drops his form or he has an injury, I know you’re there for me and that’s what I’m here for. I’m pushing Thomas as hard as I can. I’m doing a lot behind the scenes to help the young boys and I’m ready when I’m called upon.
“So patience for me, but I’m buzzing to be at this club. I’m really proud of where this club is heading from where the club.”
