SCOTTISH star Eoin Jess is the latest name linked with a big money move to Ewood Park.

Kenny Dalglish sparked another round of speculation with a trip across the border to watch last night's game between Hibernian and Aberdeen.

Jess, who has nine caps for Scotland, is out of contract at Pittodrie at the end of the season.

And he has promised to give Dons boss Roy Aitken a decision over his future within the week.

But that is unlikely to feature a move to Rovers. Ray Harford has a number of irons in the fire but I understand an imminent move for the 25-year-old is highly unlikely.

Strengthening the midfield, where Jess played in the 2-1 win over Hibs, is not an immediate priority.

On the Blackburn director of football's presence, Aitken said: "I couldn't comment on who he was looking at, as I haven't spoken to Kenny.

"But it doesn't surprise me that the managers of other clubs want to look at our players. I've said all along that I won't keep the fans in the dark over Eoin's future.

Sources in Scotland believe Aberdeen vice-captain Gary Smith might be a more realistic option for Rovers.

The 24-year-old, signed from Falkirk in 1991, was strongly linked with Liverpool during Dalglish's reign.

The £1.5 million-rated full back can play on either flank and has also covered in a central defensive role.

Hibs striker Kevin Harper, a Scottish under-21 international who scored a stunning goal last night, is another possible target.

And Dalglish might also have expected Aberdeen striker Scott Booth to make an appearance following a lengthy injury lay-off. But Aitken decided against fielding the Scottish international, who has scored four times in eight appearances for his country, at the last minute.

Rovers take on Tranmere tonight in the third round of the FA Youth Cup, having given some excellent performances in both national and county knockout competitions so far this season. This could prove to be their best run in the FA Youth Cup for many years, though they will have their work cut out against a Tranmere side who defeated Everton in the last round.

Scoring sensation James Beattie passed a late fitness test on a groin strain, but Mark Benson was ruled out through injury. Team: Williams, Worrell, McCallion, Chisholm, Broomes, Hope, Johnson, Staton, Beattie, Thomas, Duff. Subs: Brown, Cassin, Taylor.

Kick-off time is 7pm and admission to the Jack Walker Stand lower tier is through gate 'L' - adults £3, concessions £1 - with premium season ticket holders admitted free of charge on production of voucher X.

Tickets for the Littlewoods FA Cup third round replay on Tuesday January 16, (7.45pm) are on sale to all supporters and league season ticket holders on production of voucher Q with their season ticket book. These seats must be claimed before 4.30pm, Friday, January 12, when all reserved seats will be on open sale.

Normal match prices apply and premium season ticket holders need take no action.

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