Rovers have explored the possibility of bringing Harry Chapman back from Middlesbrough - but the Lancashire Telegraph understands the 21-year-old is unlikely to return at this stage.

Chapman was a second half substitute for Boro in their Carabao Cup second round win over Rochdale after recovering from a shoulder injury.

The flying winger played 16 times for Rovers last season during an injury-hit spell at Ewood Park.

Chapman dazzled in his fleeting outings, but suffered two long-term hamstring injuries, the first in the 0-0 draw at Wigan on October 28.

Then, in March, he was forced off just minutes in to his comeback for Rovers Under-23s at Aston Villa which ended his season.

However, Chapman enjoyed a productive pre-season and featured in Boro’s first two Championship squads before picking up a shoulder injury which ruled him out for three weeks.

It is understood Middlesbrough won’t allow the England youth international to leave unless Tony Pulis is able to add to his squad before Friday’s 5pm deadline, with the Boro boss having been left frustrated in his bid to add to his squad.

Rovers will assess other options as they eye another possible addition to their squad before the loan deadline, with Dominic Samuel set for an extended spell on the sidelines with a knee injury.