Blackburn Rovers have reached an agreement with Swedish side GAIS to sign midfielder Axel Henriksson on a permanent deal, with the player already in England undergoing a medical.
The 23-year-old has emerged as a key target for head coach Valérien Ismaël, who is keen to add more dynamism and goal threat from midfield. According to a report from Sportbladet, a deal has been struck between the two clubs and the move is expected to be finalised in the coming days pending the outcome of Henriksson’s medical.
The fee involved has not been disclosed, and it remains unclear whether a clause or add-ons form part of the agreement. However, all indications suggest this is a permanent transfer, not a loan.
Henriksson arrives after standout spell in Sweden
Henriksson has enjoyed a productive run with GAIS since joining from BK Häcken in 2022. In just over two years, he has recorded 26 goals and 6 assists in 80 appearances, primarily operating as a box-to-box or attacking midfielder.
His aggressive and direct style of play has made him one of the Allsvenskan’s more eye-catching young midfielders. In the current Swedish season, Henriksson has already received 7 yellow cards in just 15 games, highlighting his combative presence in the centre of the park.
He was absent from GAIS’ most recent match — a 2-2 draw with Värnamo — as his transfer to England moved closer to completion.
Overseas strategy continues at Ewood Park
Blackburn Rovers have not shied away from overseas recruitment in recent years, and this latest move continues that trend. The club’s strategy under Ismaël appears to focus on finding value in under-scouted markets, rather than paying premiums for domestic rivals’ players.
Henriksson fits the mould of a high-energy, two-way midfielder who can contribute in the final third while also covering ground defensively — traits that align with Ismaël’s pressing system and direct style of play.
The club are expected to announce the deal formally once the Swedish midfielder completes his medical and signs terms.
📊 Key Stats – GAIS (All Competitions):
• Appearances: 80
• Goals: 26
• Assists: 6
• 2025 Season bookings: 7 in 15 games
• Position: Central Midfield / Attacking Midfield
🟦 ZONE CONFIRMED
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