Igor Tyjon has been linked with Arsenal.
Igor Tyjon has been linked with Arsenal.
Valerien Ismael did not rule out an exit for Igor Tyjon ahead of transfer deadline day with Arsenal still keen on the Blackburn Rovers youngsters.
The head coach revealed at the end of December that the 17-year-old had refused to sign his first professional deal at Ewood Park. Having signed a two-year scholarship in 2024, that means his contract expires in the summer.
Rovers will get training compensation for Tyjon unless they strike a deal on deadline day. Arsenal have a long-standing interest in him and a deadline day switch wasn't ruled out by the head coach before 7pm.
"I don't know. The last thing on my stand, I've been told that he didn't want to extend his contract," Ismael said ahead of facing Hull City.
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"So from now, I think that everything can happen with him. I think that we show a lot, not only him, but all the young players, that since I came, I spoke about creating a pathway for the young players.
"I didit so far and it was for everyone to taje the chance to show up at some point. But at some point, we need commitment from the players as well.
"I can only go in one way with him. I think it's just the situation where we are with him."
Tyjon featured heavily in pre-season but hasn't played a minute for Rovers since August. He did return to the bench over Christmas when injuries took their toll but he still didn't feature.
Ismael spoke in the summer about creating a clear pathway for Tyjon, including talks with his representatives and family. However, it's now destined he will depart, whether that be in January or the summer when his deal expires.