BLACKBURN Rovers are at the head of the pack chasing Greek superstar Georgios Donis.

But the race to capture the signature of the Panathinaikos star may still be a marathon affair, rather than a sprint.

A number of Europe's top clubs are said to be interested in the flying winger.

They include Italian giants Fiorentina, Arsenal and, notably, Manchester United.

And with the 27-year-old now out of contract, Donis would not cost a penny in transfer fees.

His choice of new club is likely to be largely based on the wages on offer.

But Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson has stated he will not make any signings until after Euro 96.

Rovers, backed by the Jack Walker millions, are willing to splash out again in order to secure the services of two top names before the start of the new Premiership campaign.

Players' wages are set to escalate in the wake of the Bosman ruling and figures in the region of £20,000 a week have been quoted. Donis admitted: "I have the complete support of Panathinaikos to make the move abroad.

"They consider it a big honour not only for me but for Greek soccer."

However, with a FIFA ban hanging over transfers involving Greek clubs, any deal could prove an administrative jungle.

And reports that Rovers were set to clinch the deal today are premature.

The President of Panathinaikos Supporters Club in London, Babis Patsouris, confirmed: "I understand from the Greek press today that George has had an offer from Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers.

"The reports say he will be coming to London before the end of the week to discuss a transfer.

"He is a big superstar in Greece and and is a marvellous athlete. He is probably the most talked about player in Greece right now.

"Georgios is such a quick footballer and I think that would be major help when he is playing in the Premier League. The English style should suit him."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.