DERBY boss John Gregory is ready to join the scramble to sign Russian flyer Valeri Karpin -- a target for Ewood chief Graeme Souness.

The 33-year-old Celta Vigo star is one of a number of players who have been watched by Rovers' scouting staff recently with a view to next season.

But if Souness decides to make a move for the player, who's available on a Bosman free in the summer, then he could face competition from Gregory.

"This bloke is a legend in his home country and we are definitely interested in him," confirmed the Rams boss last night.