Blackburn Rovers are interested in Japanese attacker Yuki Ohashi as they look to break their duck in the transfer window, The Lancashire Telegraph understands.
The 27-year-old attacker currently plies his trade in the J-League in Japan for Sanfrecce Hiroshima.
Rovers have been keen to bolster their attack all summer and with Ipswich Town now chasing Sam Szmodics, there is an even greater urgency to bring in new faces.
The Tractor Boys had a bid rejected by Rovers this week, with reports from Suffolk claiming that was in the region of £6million. It's understood that the figure offered is well below the club's asking price but it feels unlikely that will be the end of their pursuit.
READ MORE: ROVERS IN TALKS WITH FORMER TRANSFER TARGET OVER FRESH MOVE
The J-League season is 24 games old and Ohashi has been their top goal-scorer, netting 11 goals and registering three assists so far this term, plus an extra five in cup competitions.
Initial reports in Japan claim Ohashi would be a deal worth around £1m, however, The Lancashire Telegraph understands that figure is higher than what could be agreed. It's understood the forward has some favourable clauses in his contract when it comes to negotiating with European clubs.
The Japanese reports also state that a deal has been agreed between the two clubs and he will fly over in the coming days. A work permit would need to be sorted for Ohashi to play in the Championship.
That should be a formality as Rovers have four ESC slots available, which can used for players that would not otherwise qualify for a work permit under the new post-Brexit rules. Leopold Wahlstedt and Semir Telalovic assumed two of those last season but have both left the football club this summer.
Rovers are also interested in signing defender Danny Batth on a free transfer. The 33-year-old is a free agent after leaving Norwich City and is currently training with Wolves to maintain fitness as he weighs up contract offers.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel