Blackburn Rovers are currently in talks with Birmingham City regarding the potential permanent signing of Taylor Gardner-Hickman, according to BirminghamLive sources.
Gardner-Hickman, 23, joined Blackburn on loan at the end of the summer transfer window, with the agreement including an option to buy. Since linking up again with manager Valerien Ismael—whom he previously worked with at West Bromwich Albion—Gardner-Hickman has become a regular starter. He has featured in 12 Championship matches, primarily playing in his favored central midfield role.
Despite a challenging start to the season, Blackburn have improved to 18th place in the Championship table, bolstered by an impressive away record, second only to Coventry City. Reflecting their interest in retaining Gardner-Hickman, Blackburn has signaled their intention to Birmingham City to activate the buy option, and discussions between the two clubs are ongoing.
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For Birmingham City, Gardner-Hickman was instrumental during their record-breaking League One title-winning season. However, the arrival of 12 new players during the summer has seen his playing time diminish, leading to him being loaned out.
There is a strong chance that negotiations could conclude with Gardner-Hickman making a permanent switch to Ewood Park during the January transfer window. This move would mark the third time Gardner-Hickman has converted a loan spell into a permanent transfer mid-season—following similar moves with Birmingham City and Bristol City in the previous two January windows.
As the season progresses, Blackburn and Birmingham continue their discussions over the midfielder’s future, reflecting his growing importance to both clubs.