BLACKBURN Rovers boss Mark Hughes has targeted Jason Koumas as the man to replace Robbie Savage.

The Lancashire Telegraph understands the Rovers chief is keen to do a deal for the Welsh international, who only signed for Wigan last summer but could be made available as part of a shake-up by new boss Steve Bruce.

Hughes has long been an admirer of Koumas, and he gave the versatile 28-year-old his full international debut during his time as the manager of Wales.

Now the Rovers chief is ready to test Wigan's resolve by launching a £3 million raid for the former West Brom star, as he seeks to plug the gap in midfield created by the departures of Savage to Derby, and Aaron Mokoena to the African Nations Cup.

Koumas cost Wigan a cool £5.3 million when they bought him from West Brom, but he has hardly set the world during his first six months at the JJB and it is believed Bruce may be willing to let him go.

Rovers could even make a move for the player before this Sunday's derby date with Bolton Wanderers, because Hughes is struggling for midfielders after Tugay suffered a hamstring injury in training on Monday.

Scans have yet to confirm whether the veteran Turk has suffered a tear, but he has to be rated doubtful for what will be a tough assignment at the Reebok.