Rovers have signed young Walsall striker Mitchel Candlin who will initially team up with the club’s Under-23s side.

The deal for the 18-year-old includes an option to make the move permanent in January.

Candlin has made eight first-team appearances for the Saddlers, making his debut in April 2017, aged just 16.

The Stafford-born frontman signed his first professional contract in August 2017, before playing a further four first team games for Walsall last season.

Candlin is expected to initially link up with Damien Johnson's Under-23s, as he attempts to force his way into manager Tony Mowbray's senior squad.

“I can't wait to get playing and do as well as I can at a great club with a massive history,” said Candlin.

“The facilities here are outstanding and they will hopefully bring out the best in me.

“I hope to gain knowledge and experience from both Damien Johnson and Tony Mowbray - I've met them both and they are really nice people.

“The goal is to ultimately play first team football, but I'm aware that I have to produce the goods for the Under-23s first.

“I played under two different managers at Walsall and felt I handled the physical nature of League One well and did okay when I played.

“Having been on the bench for Walsall in the league game against Rovers at Ewood Park last season, I saw a clinical team that played the right way and I was very impressed. I can't wait to get going with this great club.”