BLACKBURN Rovers are continuing negotiations over the release of defender Gael Givet – allowing the Frenchman to complete a move to Italian side Livorno.

Givet has been in Italy for talks and a medical but the Serie A club released a statement confirming that a deal is not yet complete.

“In reference to negotiations for the possible transfer of Gael Givet, AS Livorno Calcio point out that no financial agreement has been reached with the French player’s club,” read the statement.

But it is understood that negotiations were continuing last night as both clubs look to reach agreement with Givet, with the move not scheduled to take the route of a conventional transfer.

Instead Givet is holding talks with Rovers about a release from the final year of his lucrative contract at Ewood Park, which is likely to see the 31-year-old receive a pay-off in return for agreeing to leave.

Rovers, who drew 1-1 at Preston in their latest pre-season friendly last night, have already reached similar settlements with Nuno Gomes and Danny Murphy this summer as they attempt to cut their wage bill ahead of the Football League’s new financial fair play regulations.

Once that release is agreed, Givet would then be a free agent and be able to join Livorno.

It is believed Givet remains in talks with Livorno about his personal terms with the Italian club. He is likely to take a pay cut to move to the newly promoted Serie A side.

Livorno sporting director Stefano Capozucca has also publicly confirmed that the club have been holding a stringent medical for a defender who suffered minor heart issues in December 2011, when he had to leave the field in a match at Sunderland because of palpitations.

Livorno are particularly sensitive to heart issues after their midfielder Piermario Morosini collapsed and died during a game in April 2012.

Meanwhile, Rovers defender Ryan Edwards has joined League Two side Chesterfield on an initial month’s loan.