Wigan Athletic and Burton Albion are both in the race to sign experienced striker Jordan Rhodes, according to reports from journalist Alan Nixon.
The 35-year-old is one of the most prolific goalscorers in EFL history, with 123 goals in the Championship and another 86 in League One. Despite his legendary status, Rhodes is currently without a club after being released by Blackpool this summer.
He spent the second half of last season on loan at Mansfield Town, scoring once in 14 appearances. That followed a strong 2023/24 campaign, where he hit 15 goals for Blackpool in League One, but the past year has seen his output slow dramatically.
Now a free agent, Rhodes is weighing up his next move — and it appears two League One rivals are circling.
Reports suggest that Wigan Athletic are keen to bring Rhodes to the Brick Community Stadium as a backup option. The Latics have already signed Christian Saydee, Paul Mullin, and Dara Costelloe, and view Rhodes as an experienced depth option to bolster their attacking corps.
However, Burton Albion may offer a more appealing pathway to regular minutes. Manager Gary Bowyer is reportedly eager to reunite with Rhodes, having worked with him during their time together at Blackburn Rovers.
With Wigan offering competition and stature, and Burton offering familiarity and more game time, Rhodes must now decide what kind of role he wants at this stage in his career.
Despite scoring just one league goal in 36 appearances during 2024/25, his experience and leadership could prove invaluable to either side.