FRENCH striker Christophe Dugarry looks as though he is on his way to Italy, to the disappointment of Blackburn Rovers.

The Bordeaux star has been a target of Rovers boss Ray Harford for some time and has yet to make an official announcement about his future plans.

But I can reveal from sources close to the club that Dugarry has said that English football is not an option for him and he intends to continue his career in Serie A.

He is thought to prefer the lifestyle in Italy and family ties have also been a consideration.

Rovers have heard nothing official from Bordeaux as yet, even though there has been contact between the clubs for some time.

But it looks now as though their efforts to capture the £4 million-rated 24-year-old striker are doomed to failure.

Harford originally travelled to Bordeaux to look at another French star Zinedine Zidane but he too is expected to go to Italy, with European Cup winners Juventus the favourites for his signature.

Both men are expected to be among the stars of Euro 96 when the action gets under way on June 8.

Like Manchester United, Rovers have been forced to switch their search for new signings to the continent, because of the lack of available talent in England.

They are also believed to be keeping a close check on the position of Panathinaikos star Georgios Donis.

The pacey forward is expected to move on once the Greeks have finished their domestic season, though an international transfer ban might complicate matters - not to mention interest from other clubs. Although the Republic of Ireland have failed to qualify for Euro 96, their players will be as busy as any involved in the championships over the next few weeks.

New Irish boss Mick McCarthy has arranged a six-match summer for his squad, including a tour of America.

And that means plenty of action, but little rest, for Ewood players Jeff Kenna and Shay Given.

Before leaving for the United States, where they will play their hosts, Mexico and Bolivia, the Irish take on Croatia and Portugal at home and visit Holland - a testing programme.

Billy McKinlay is unlikely to figure for Scotland in their first tour match against the USA on Sunday.

The Ewood midfielder is nursing a calf strain.

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