Everton have emerged as one of the leading clubs in the race for Blackburn Rovers ace John Buckley, but the Ewood Park natives have no intention of selling their bright spark, according to TEAMtalk.
In an exclusive reveal, TEAMtalk are claiming that Blackburn have opened discussions with the 19-year-old to extend his stay beyond his current deal, which is set to expire in 12 months, but only after learning of our interest in his signature.
Buckley has been with Rovers since he was six-years-old and signed his first professional deal in January 2018, though he is yet to make his senior debut. He is edging closer to making his inaugural first-team outing under Tony Mowbray, however, having struck an integral role with the U23s.
So far this season, the versatile midfielder – most adept at playing the central role – has featured in 15 games, scoring and assisting one apiece, and played 90 minutes in each appearance.
If our interest in the teenager is genuine, we will have to rely on contract negotiations stuttering, and that Manchester United and Liverpool do not make a more substantial approach for his services, with it also noted that they are keeping tabs on his progress, too.