Blackburn Rovers have completed the permanent signing of defender Sean McLoughlin from Hull City in a deal worth around £500,000.
The 28-year-old centre-back has signed a two-year contract at Ewood Park with the option of a further 12 months, becoming Rovers’ fourth addition of the summer transfer window.
McLoughlin, a composed and left-footed defender, arrives with a wealth of Championship experience, having made 146 appearances for Hull since joining the club from Cork City in 2019. He was the Tigers’ longest-serving player at the time of his departure.
The Republic of Ireland youth international spent time on loan at St Mirren during his first season in England, before becoming a regular fixture in the Hull side and playing a key role in their League One title-winning campaign in 2020/21.
Last season, McLoughlin featured 37 times in all competitions, often deployed at left-back, and wore the captain’s armband on two occasions. He had entered the final 12 months of his contract at the MKM Stadium and leaves in search of regular football in his preferred central role.
Rovers had shown interest in McLoughlin a year earlier, but Hull resisted those advances. However, with a fee now agreed, the Irishman will link up with his new teammates for their pre-season training camp in Spain next week.
A statement from Hull City read:
“We would like to thank Sean for his commitment, hard work and professionalism throughout his six years at the MKM Stadium and wish him well for the future.”
The move bolsters Rovers’ defensive ranks ahead of the 2025/26 Championship campaign and brings valuable leadership qualities into the squad.
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