Blackburn Rovers have formally opened negotiations with Birmingham City regarding a permanent transfer for midfielder Taylor Gardner-Hickman, according to exclusive information obtained by BirminghamLive.
Loan Deal Includes Permanent Option
The 23-year-old player moved to Ewood Park on a loan agreement at the close of the summer transfer window. Crucially, that temporary switch included an option-to-buy clause, which Blackburn are now actively looking to trigger. Discussions between the two Championship clubs are currently ongoing.
Gardner-Hickman has settled impressively at his new club, becoming a regular starter under manager Valerien Ismael. The pair have a previous working relationship from their time together at West Bromwich Albion. Since his arrival, the midfielder has started 12 league games in the heart of Blackburn's midfield, helping to stabilise their season after a difficult start.
Midfielder's Journey from St Andrew's
The player was a pivotal figure for Birmingham City during their triumphant League One title-winning campaign last season. However, his opportunities at St Andrew's diminished following a significant summer overhaul, which saw the club bring in 12 new players, pushing him down the pecking order and leading to his loan departure.
Blackburn's form has improved notably, with the team climbing to 18th place in the Championship table. Their strong away record, second only to Coventry City, has been a key factor in their ascent up the league.
Potential for January Resolution
There is a distinct possibility that a permanent transfer could be finalised as early as the upcoming January transfer window. If completed, this would mark the third consecutive season in which Gardner-Hickman has turned a mid-season loan into a permanent move. He made similar transitions with Birmingham City and Bristol City in the January windows of the previous two years.
For Birmingham City, securing a fee for a player who is not in their immediate plans would represent sensible business. For Blackburn and Ismael, it would mean securing the services of a midfielder who has already proven his value to their system and their fight for Championship stability.
