BLACKBURN Rovers are expected to complete a double swoop for Amiens midfielder Steven N’Zonzi and a right back in the next couple of days.

The Lancashire Telegraph understands that Rovers are now close to finalising a deal for 20-year-old N’Zonzi, who has been dubbed ‘the new Patrick Vieira’ and is expected to undertake the final stages of a medical at Brockhall early this week.

Rovers boss Sam Allardyce is also keen to bring in a new right back after the departure of Andre Ooijer to PSV Eindhoven and the return of Danny Simpson to Manchester United at the end of his season-long loan.

There had been suggestions that the search for a new right back would go on the backburner while Allardyce prioritised a striker signing following the exit of Roque Santa Cruz.

But Allardyce has suggested that he is keen to bringing in replacements for both Ooijer and departed midfielder Tugay, and it is now understood that Rovers expect to sign a right-back from abroad in the next few days.

Versatile midfielders Brett Emerton and Keith Andrews are currently the club’s only real options at right back, with Allardyce optimistic that Emerton will return from a cruciate knee ligament injury in time for the start of the season.

David Dunn is also likely to be fit following Achilles surgery, although fellow midfielder Steven Reid faces a race against time to be available as he recovers from a recurring knee problem.

N’Zonzi, though, will bolster the midfield and scouting reports on the young Frenchman are believed to have thoroughly impressed Rovers, with Portsmouth also reported to be interested.

The 6ft 3in midfielder’s form was unable to stop Amiens’ relegation to the third tier of French football during 2008/09 but has tempted Rovers to part with a fee thought to be around the £400,000 mark.

Rovers will be keen to have both players signed up in time for the first day of pre-season jobs" target="_blank">training on Wednesday and will turn their focus to their striker chase following this week’s additions.