DOMINIC Matteo is ready to join Blackburn Rovers at some stage in the next fortnight.
As I understand it, Matteo has set his sights on a move to Ewood Park this summer after snubbing several offers to go elsewhere.
And the 30-year-old is hoping a deal can be sorted out when he returns from a family holiday at the back end of next week.
Sources close to the player claim Rovers have held further talks with the Leeds United star's representatives in the last few days.
Premiership rivals Fulham and Everton have also registered their interest in the former Liverpool player, too.
But Matteo has told friends he favours a move to Rovers, where he would get the chance to renew acquaintances with Graeme Souness, who was his manager at Anfield.
The one big stumbling block that could scupper any deal remains Matteo's wages, which currently amount to almost £40,000-a-week.
Rovers have been trying to strike a deal which would see Leeds pay a percentage of his weekly salary, as they do with Robbie Fowler at Manchester City.
But United are offering to waive the transfer fee instead which still leaves Rovers with the problem of persuading Matteo to take a significant pay-cut.
However, if the Scottish international wants to remain a Premiership player then a drop is inevitable.
Matteo currently owns a house in North Leeds and part of the attraction of a move to Rovers is the fact he wouldn't need to relocate immediately.
Meanwhile, fans are reminded the 'claim your own seat' deadline for season ticket renewal expires today.
The club have frozen prices for next season - and in some cases even reduced them - so it's actually possible to watch football at Ewood next term for the equivalent of just over £13 a game.
Other highlights of the season ticket package include a reduced-payment Direct Debit scheme, a junior season ticket at just £70 (less than £4 a match), a family price (two adults and two children) from just £33.70 per game, and discount on matchday programmes.
In addition, season ticket holders can also save an extra £50 off any holiday, thanks to a unique partnership with Travelcare.
The ticket office is open until 4pm today to accommodate renewals and all other enquiries or you can contact the ticket office hotline on 08701 123456 for further details.
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