Blackburn Rovers have reportedly opened talks with free agent Jack Rodwell.

The 27-year-old has spent the last four seasons with Sunderland, but the North-East outfit's relegation to League One resulted in the club making every effort to get the former England international off the wage bill.

Rodwell's contract was eventually cancelled in June, and that has resulted in the central midfielder attempting to earn a deal elsewhere.

According to the Daily Mail, Blackburn have taken an interest in Rodwell and are holding discussions regarding the signing of the player.

The move could suit Rodwell, with his entire career being spent in the North of England, while newly-promoted Blackburn have made a strong start to the Championship campaign with six points being registered from four fixtures.

Rodwell only made two appearances in the Championship last season.