BLACKBURN boss Paul Ince is weighing up a possible swoop for the 'new Michael Essien'.

Ghanaian international Anthony Annan, who was also a target for former Rovers chief Mark Hughes before he left the club earlier this summer, could be coming to Brockhall next week to spend a few days at the club.

Rated as one of the most exciting midfield prospects in the world, the 21-year-old IK Start powerhouse, who is currently on loan to Stabæk in Norway, admits he would jump at the chance of securing a dream move to England.

Annan has been on trial at Rovers once before, but a problem over a work permit meant any thoughts of a move had to be put on hold.

However, it would seem Ince is ready to take a closer look at the African, who is now a regular for his country.

Having already been capped at junior and Olympic level for Ghana, Annan then received his first senior call-up in March last year, ironically as a replacement for the injured Chelsea star, Michael Essien, for the friendlies against Austria and Brazil.

He won his first cap against Brazil on March 27, 2007, at the Råsunda Stadium in Stockholm, and has figured regularly for Ghana ever since.

Some stunning performances at the 2008 African Cup of Nations, where he was one of the stars of the tournament, fuelled speculation linking him with moves to Chelsea, Caen and Borussia Dortmund.

He was also recently voted one of the top 10 most exciting youngsters in world football by the website Sportingo.