Hope still alive for Duncan McGuire! Blackburn make last-ditch attempt to sign USMNT prospect after ‘administrative error’ sees transfer from Orlando City fall through

The Orlando City forward’s loan signing had been initially confirmed by Blackburn, but the Rovers were unable to finalize the agreement because of a “administrative error.” The club has now invited attorneys to the table to collaborate with the EFL board on securing the relocation, having exhausted all other options. Now, this Thursday has been designated as the deadline.

However, The Athletic’s story has since disclosed the cause of the mistake, and one cannot help but feel bad for McGuire. It appears that the club did little more than push “save” on his paperwork rather than “submit,” and this oversight went unnoticed until after the deadline had gone.

THOUGH BLACKBURN

Duncan McGuire’s intended loan move to Blackburn Rovers from MLS club Orlando City has not been accepted by the EFL to date since the registration forms were filed after the 11 p.m. transfer deadline, according to a statement released by Blackburn.

“All of the signed documentation had been completed by 10 p.m. on Thursday, February 1st, but an administrative error prevented the documents from being processed in the allotted time.

“Over the past few days, in-depth talks have been held with legal counsel and the pertinent football authorities in an attempt to find a swift and constructive solution to the issue. The necessary documentation has been completed by the club’s attorneys and given to the EFL Board, who will review the case on Thursday, February 8.

Duncan McGuire has been granted permission by Orlando City to stay in the UK while the EFL Board makes a judgment. In the event that his registration is denied, he will travel back to the United States and rejoin his team before the 2024 MLS season begins.

In the event that the appeal is denied, Blackburn Rovers will work to come to a pre-contract arrangement with Orlando City in the upcoming weeks so that the player can formally join the team when the summer transfer window opens in 2024. At this point, the club will not be commenting further on the situation.”

THE LARGER IMAGE

One of the most attractive players in the nation right now for the USA is McGuire; transfer rumors involving the 2023 MLS Rookie of the Year have been circulating since January. After scoring 15 goals in his first season, he is currently the front-runner to play for the United States Under-23 Olympic team in the summer. It will only strengthen his case for a starting berth if his move to England goes through. But he’s undoubtedly in the running, especially considering the clinical form he displayed during the previous campaign.

But for now, all that can be done is wait and see what comes next for him.

MCGUIRE, ORLANDO CITY, AND BLACKBURN’S FUTURE

Both clubs will do business as usual until Thursday’s appeal is processed, which will be eagerly anticipated by the Championship side. But, they plan to return to the negotiating table in the summer window if no deal is reached.

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