STOCKPORT striker Shefki Kuqi could become a Blackburn player by the end of this week after he swooped into Brockhall yesterday for a couple of days of training.

Ewood chief Graeme Souness has been granted special permission by County to have a look at the player at closer quarters.

And, if he impresses in training, then Rovers may open talks about upping their offer in a bid to beef up their firepower ahead of Middlesbrough's visit to Ewood on Saturday.

"This is an opportunity for him to come and meet Graeme and the players, as well as having a chance to look at the general set-up as well," said chief executive John Williams.

"Then, if Graeme decides he wants to take things further, we'll sit down and talk with Stockport."

Rovers initially made an offer of £500,000 for the 24-year-old which was subsequently rejected by County, who were holding out for a fee closer to £1 million.

But it is now thought a compromise figure can be reached if Souness decides to make a move, with Rovers paying around £650,000 up front plus a similar instalment based on appearances.

Should the player sign, however, Souness is still likely to pursue other avenues as well in a bid to bolster his striking options.

Italian hot-shot Ciccio Grabbi could still follow Marcus Bent out of the Ewood exit door in the next seven days, with Serie B side Napoli waiting in the wings.

And that would mean Souness would have around £9 million to spend on reinforcements which could pave the way for a move for Liverpool's Robbie Fowler, who is also attracting interest from Lazio and Leeds.

Fans have until tonight to buy tickets for tomorrow's eagerly anticipated Worthington Cup clash with Manchester City at Ewood Park.

As the game is all ticket, supporters will not be able to purchase tickets tomorrow.

Therefore, the ticket office will stay open until 7pm tonight to cope with the late demand.

Prices range from £17 for adults to £3 for juniors (senior citizen tickets cost £10).

At present, Ewood officials are expecting a crowd of 20,000-plus.