NORTHERN Ireland international Damien Johnson was today on the brink of quitting Blackburn Rovers after he was granted permission last night to open talks with a couple of leading First Division clubs.

As I understand it, both Nottingham Forest and Birmingham City have contacted Rovers about a cut-price move for the 23-year-old midfielder.

And a deal could even be concluded later today with Johnson set to continue discussions over personal terms.

"There are two clubs who we have given permission to speak to Damien and both of them are in the First Division," said chief executive John Williams today.

Birmingham are now thought to be the favourites to land the former youth team starlet after seizing the initiative last night.

With Johnson's contract set to run out at the end of the season, he could be allowed to leave for as little as £150,000, although Rovers will demand a sell-on clause as part of any potential deal.

"Given that Graeme has recommended to the board that we don't offer Damien a new contract in the summer, it's the sensible thing to do because he could leave for free once the transfer deadline expires in three weeks' time," said Williams.

"So if he does go then we wish him all the best because he has been a good player for this club during his time here."

Meanwhile, Graeme Souness today quashed talk of a fresh move for Aston Villa's Steve Stone by revealing he will not make any more new signings before transfer deadline day.

Souness's transfer kitty has now been exhausted following his double swoop for Hakan Unsal and Yordi -- which took the number of signings he has made since the summer up to nine.

And with the deadline now just three weeks away, the Ewood chief is adamant he now has a squad capable of mounting a successful survival bid without the need for any further additions.

"That will be it for us until the summer now in terms of buying anyone," said Souness.

Rovers were rumoured to be ready to open talks with Villa about a move for Stone following Tuesday night's victory over the Midlanders at Ewood.

But, with Villa thought to be asking for £3-4 million for the former England man, Rovers have abandoned their interest in the player.

after making an initial enquiry last month as we revealed a fortnight ago.

CARLISLE UNITED are ready to make a swoop for Academy starlet Ryan Hevicon before transfer deadline day on March 28.

United boss Roddy Collins is keen on the Rovers youngster and is now free to sign players against after the Cumbrians have had a transfer embargo lifted.