Connor O'Riordan: Blackburn sign Crewe defender on deal until 2028

Connor O'Riordan scored twice in Crewe's 3-2 win over Doncaster in November

Blackburn Rovers have signed Crewe Alexandra defender Connor O'Riordan for an undisclosed fee.

The 20-year-old has played 27 times for League Two Crewe this season and has made more than 50 appearances in total.

The Irishman has signed a four-and-a-half year deal until June 2028.

"Connor will bring an aerial presence in both boxes, calmness in possession and desire to do the ugly things needed to be a first-class defender," director of football, Gregg Broughton, said.

It is understood Championship side Blackburn met the Republic of Ireland Under-21 international's buyout clause to take him to Ewood Park.

He is Crewe's first big-money departure since fellow defender Harry Pickering also left for Blackburn in the 2021 January transfer window.

Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.