ASTON Villa defender Steve Staunton could be the next on Roy Hodgson's summer shopping list.

Staunton is out of contract at Villa this summer and free to move for nothing under the Bosman ruling.

He has been given a June 1 deadline by Villa boss John Gregory to reply to the club's contract offer.

But the indications are that the Republic of Ireland international is looking for a move and Rovers may join the chasing pack. The Ewood Park club this week completed the signing of Gillingham teenager Jim Corbett and chief executive John Williams pledged that the 17-year-old would be the first of a number of summer signings.

Rovers are on the look-out for a striker and a left-back could also be on the wanted list after problems in that position last season.

Hodgson signed Scottish under-21 international Callum Davidson from St Johnstone but injury problems restricted him to just one start and in all five players filled the left-back berth at various stages.

The 29-year-old Staunton could therefore be seen as a solution and the former Liverpool player's desire to join an ambitious club in with a serious chance of honours may pave the way for a move. With Blackburn ready to splash out during the close season, Staunton's personal terms would not be a problem and his experience would be invaluable both at home and abroad in the Uefa Cup next term.

If Rovers harden their interest in Italian striker Carmine Esposito they will face stiff competition for his signature from within Serie A.

The Empoli striker, who scored 14 goals last season, has been checked out by Rovers but is also wanted by AC Milan and Bolognia.

Bolognia are resigned to losing Roberto Baggio, possibly to a Premiership club, and see the goals of the £3.5m rated Esposito as potential compensation.

Meanwhile, Rovers' latest recruit could become the subject of a tug-of-war between England and the Republic of Ireland as he closes in on representative honours.

Corbett, who joined Rovers in a move revealed in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph on Wednesday, is qualified to play for both countries.

However, England may have stolen a march in the race to introduce him to age group international football with under-21 boss Peter Taylor keeping tabs on his remarkable recent progress. "Peter Taylor has been aware of the situation with regard to Jim over the last couple of months," said Corbett's agent Andrew Mills.

"I believe enquiries were made to Gillingham with reference to his availability for which nationality.

"Hopefully now that with Jim coming up to Blackburn more positive steps will be made on the international scene."

Corbett joined Rovers on a five-year contract with a further two-year option which will make him one of the most secure teenagers in the British game.

And Gills chairman Paul Scally described the chance as a "once in a lifetime" one.

"It's a massive opportunity for the lad and there are not many bigger clubs than Blackburn," said Scally.

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