Blackburn Rovers narrowly secured their safety under Michael O'Neill last season, but they are now managed by the returning Tony Mowbray. He will have an almighty task on his hands to get his side to score enough goals. Last term, Blackburn ranked 23rd in the second tier for goals scored, on 42, with Sheffield Wednesday the only side with fewer goals than the Lancashire outfit. That is a massive concern to all connected with Rovers, so adding someone of Stewart's calibre could be season-defining for Blackburn.
What happened to Ross Stewart at Southampton?
Ross Stewart in fact turned down a new deal at Southampton this summer, allowing the Scot to leave on a free transfer following the expiry of his contract. His impending departure has caused widespread outrage among the Saints fanbase, with many disappointed at his decision to depart the club. Stewart joined from Sunderland in the summer of 2023 for around £12m, but has suffered constant injury struggles since his arrival, limiting the 30-year-old to just 50 appearances across all competitions in his three years at the club.
Why is Ross Stewart a good fit for Blackburn Rovers?
When fit and available, Stewart is among the very best strikers in the division, so it's whether any second tier outfits are willing to take a gamble on him, which certainly will be more appealing now given he is available on a free transfer. As a target man, Stewart would be able to add physicality and be a focal point in the Blackburn attack, and provided quality is provided from the midfield areas, then the goals should start flowing.
What comes next for Ross Stewart?
The 30-year-old will now be hopeful of putting his woes behind him and maintaining his fitness at a new club, with Stewart coming off the back of scoring eight goals during the 2025-26 term at St Mary's. And there are sure to be plenty of Championship suitors willing to lure the Scotsman for free, with Stewart still able to be a goalscoring asset at second tier level. It is a bit of a surprise that Stewart is yet to land himself a new club given his exploits with the Saints, with the Championship kicking off in two weeks' time. With this in mind, FLW has identified two Championship clubs who should firmly be in the race to secure Stewart's signature ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Why is Blackburn Rovers a good fit for Ross Stewart?
The first club who should be interested in making a move for Ross Stewart is Blackburn Rovers, who are in desperate need of some added firepower to help get them towards the right end of the Championship standings next season. Adding someone of Stewart's calibre could be season-defining for Blackburn, and with the 30-year-old available on a free transfer, it's a no-brainer for the Lancashire outfit. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 20th in Championship, 52 pts, 13W-13D-20L from 46 games, recent form LWDLD. Goals this season: 42 scored, 56 conceded (-14 goal difference). Title race: 43 points behind leaders Coventry.
