BLACKBURN transfer target Lorenzo Amoruso claims Rovers could be facing competition for his signature from Manchester United and Arsenal.

The 31-year-old defender looks destined to leave Rangers this summer after admitting the Glasgow giants have accepted a £1.4 million bid from Rovers.

But Graeme Souness's attempts to lure him to Ewood may yet be scuppered following the Italian's admission that representatives from the Premiership's top two have both held discussions with his agent about a proposed move to England.

"Yes, it's true, I have been told that both of these clubs are interested in signing me," said Amoruso, referring to the top two in last term's Premiership.

"I didn't want to say anything about it because it is very early days, and we don't know what is going to happen, but they have spoken to my agent.

"It is obviously very flattering but, as I have said all along, my dream would be to finish my career in Glasgow and I really mean that - no matter who wants to sign me.

"But I have to be realistic and, if that can't happen, then I will look at my options."

Gunners chief Arsene Wenger is in the market for a defender as he looks for a partner for England centre-back Sol Campbell.

Martin Keown is coming to the end of his career and Wenger has also axed FA Cup hero Oleg Luzhny who has left on a free transfer.

He was recently linked with a move for Auxerre's Phillipe Mexes - a player also said to be high on the list of United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who is also in the market for a dominant figure to partner England ace Rio Ferdinand.

Rovers remain in pole position for Amoruso's signature, however, as they are the only club to have matched Rangers' valuation so far with an official bid.

But talk of interest from the two giants of English football is bound to make Ewood chief Graeme Souness twitchy until he has a deal signed and sealed.