Blackburn Set To Ink Norwegian Defender

Paul Ince is hoping to seal a deal this week that will see a new defender sign for Blackburn Rovers in January.

Tore Reginiussen has won four caps for Norway, scoring one goal, and can function in central defence or midfield. He currently plays for Tromso in his home country, the same club from which Rovers signed Morten Gamst Pedersen in 2004.

Still with a year left on his Tromso contract, the player would command a transfer fee believed to be in the region of £2million. Championship high-flyers Birmigham City are also believed to be interested, but Reginiussen appears to have his heart set on following Pedersen to Lancashire.

The 22-year old will spend four days in Blackburn this week and complete a medical as the final details of his move are ironed out.

Tromso director Tom Bendiksen said: "We are going to arrange the possibility for a transfer for Tore, and it might as well be to Blackburn. We have a nice and positive relationship to that club."

And Director of Football Morten Kræmer, added: "We are pleased that Tromsø Football club have players who are considered attractive in big, European clubs."

The move is testament to the scouting network Paul Ince has brought to Blackburn, who, despite spending their way to success years ago, now struggle to compete for players with the larger, richer clubs of the Premier League.

Zack Wilson, Goal.com