Rovers remain in contract talks with Jack Rodwell who is continuing to weigh up his future.

Rodwell, out of contract next month, has been offered a new deal but the 28-year-old has so far been reluctant to sign. There has been interest from Serie A clubs in the former England international who joined as a free agent in August.

Rodwell is understood to be keen on playing more regularly than he did this season, featuring 22 times in all.

However, his spot will come under threat even more next season, with Rovers looking to recruit both central defenders and central midfielders.

Rodwell has been used as both by Tony Mowbray, with the manager a fan of his versatility.

“There are ongoing discussions. But there has been different information put out,” said chief executive Steve Waggott.

“There’s talk of interest in Italy, but there’s nothing conclusive as to whether he’s staying or not.

“We’ll continue talks to see if we can get to a level where he might want to stay.”

There was surprise when Rodwell make the move to Ewood Park on a year-long deal after a troubled spell with Sunderland.

He had featured just 29 times for the Wearside club in the two seasons prior to joining Rovers.

And Waggott feels that having had the taste of first team football Rodwell will be keen for that continue.

He added: “Jack at this stage of his career has had his year with us and probably wants regular football again.

“It’s going to be competitive next season, as it should be.”

Incomings and outgoings are expected at Rovers this season, though Mowbray will be keen to keep hold of his senior players as he looks to try and challenge for the top six.

There will undoubtedly be interest in Rovers’ talented crop of Under-23s who finished fifth in Premier League 2.

Dan Butterworth, pictured above, John Buckley and Tyler Magloire all made their first team debuts this season, and Rovers will need to weigh up the best course for their development.

Mowbray will keep the majority of the club’s young players around his squad in pre-season before deciding whether they will be part of his squad, leave on loan, or stay with Damien Johnson’s Under-23s squad.

Waggott added: “There has been more interest around our younger players.

“At the moment I haven’t heard of any interest in any of our senior players.”

  • Ticket prices have been announced for Rovers’ second pre-season friendly at Rochdale.

The clash against Brian Barry-Murphy’s side will take place at the Crown Oil Arena on Sunday, July 14 (3pm).

Rovers fans will be housed in The Reside Estate Agency Stand (Willbutts Lane) for the encounter.

Tickets are priced at £10 for adults, £5 for seniors and Under-21s, and £1 for Under-11s.

Visiting supporters can purchase tickets online from Rochdale over the phone on 0844 826 1907 or pay cash through the turnstiles on the day.

There will be no sales from the Rovers ticket office.

Rovers start their pre-season fixtures with a trip to Barrow on Saturday, July 6 (3pm).