Blackburn Rovers news: Valerian Ismael makes Belgian defender Dion De Neve first summer addition
Blackburn Rovers have signed Dion De Neve from Jupiler Pro League side KV Kortrijk.
The Belgian has been an important player this season for KV Kortrijk, despite their relegation from the top division.
Championship side Blackburn have grabbed the 23-year-old on a three-year deal, for around £600,000.
Announced yesterday, the attacking wingback is the Lancashire side’s first bit of business this summer.
A solid season with KV Kortrijk
Dion De Neve impressed at KV Kortrijk last season.
The Belgian outfit were relegated last season, where De Neve played 26 times, either operating as a full-back or a left winger.
De Neve found the net twice last term, as well as registering three assists, with both goals coming in games where he was deployed as a winger.
How would Dion De Neve fit in at Blackburn Rovers?
If Valerian Ismael opted to utilise his new signing as a left full-back, it may cause problems within the squad.
As it stands, Yuri Ribeiro, Harry Pickering, and now De Neve will all occupy the left-back position, creating plenty of competition.
This could make it difficult for the Belgian to break into the first team, however, an alternative would be to play De Neve further forward.
His ability to cross could be useful, especially with two strikers who are both confident with their heads to get on the end of them.
Makhtar Gueye and Yuki Ohashi may score more goals from left-sided, left-footed crosses.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Blackburn Rovers news: Danny Batth and Andreas Wiemman’s future unconfirmed as duo linked to EFL Championship rival
What is next for Blackburn Rovers?
Depth is certainly a struggle for Blackburn, as evident from last season, as Rovers suffered frequent injuries, making Ismael’s XI uncertain week in, week out.
More signings will be needed to fill the bench, unless the Frenchman is confident in the club’s youth players.
Still on Blackburn’s radar is Dutch free agent Bilal Ould-Chikh.
Following FC Volendam’s promotion to the Eredivisie, the Dutch attacker has been set to be released.
Four goals and 20 assists last season helped his side win the Dutch second division, with the winger linked with Blackburn Rovers on a free deal.
Keep up with all the latest news, rumours and betting tips with Transfer News Blitz, and follow us across our social platforms on Facebook, X and BlueSky.
