The rumours are not going away.

Peterborough United boss Grant McCann has refused to pour cold water on reports that the exit of Ireland prospect Sammie Szmodics is close to completion.

In recent days, it has been reported that Szmodics is on the verge of joining Blackburn Rovers for a fee in the region of £2.5 million.

However, after Szmodics’ impressive performance on Saturday afternoon against Cheltenham Town in a 3-2 win, McCann stopped short of confirming or denying the news.

Instead, the Posh’s boss lumped praise on his performance in United’s important opening day win in League One.

“Since I’ve come in he’s been first class. What will be will be…”

Last season, Szmodics did play in the Championship for Peterborough, but was unable to help them avoid relegation back to League One.

However, his form last season is likely to have ensured a Championship return ahead of the new season.

“I won’t comment on speculation but what I will say is that Sammie’s second half performance was sensational,” he said after the game when speaking to lancs.live.

“He led the press at the top end of the pitch with [Jack] Marriott and Jonno [Johnson Clarke-Harris] and he’s such a grounded boy.

79' – Another change for Posh as Szmodics makes way for Kyprianou.

🔴 2 – 3 🎩 | #CHTPET pic.twitter.com/WoNkFSlnif

— Peterborough United (@theposh) July 30, 2022

“He’s always been dedicated to this football club as you’ve seen over the years; since I’ve come in he’s been first class. What will be will be.”

Sammie Szmodics.

Szmodics qualifies to play for the Boys in Green through his Co. Longford born grandmother, and was included in his first squad in June 2021.

However, he has yet to be capped by Stephen Kenny with the senior set-up as of yet.

First call-up for @theposhofficial number ten Sam Szmodics 🇮🇪⚽️👏

Darren Randolph, Aaron Connolly, and Callum Robinson are all ruled out so Mark Travers has also been called up to the squad 🍀#COYBIG pic.twitter.com/3TIyFAilHb

— Kenny's Kids (@KennysKids) May 28, 2021

“I am over the moon to receive my first international call-up for a nation that is close to mine and my family’s hearts,” Szmodics said after he earned his first Ireland call-up over one year ago.

“I am looking forward to the 12 days ahead and experiencing international football.”