FORMER Blackburn favourite Henning Berg today made a dramatic return to Ewood ahead of Sunday's derby clash with Burnley at Turf Moor.

Rovers chief executive John Williams wrapped up a £1.75 million deal for the Norwegian international this morning after a series of talks over the last 24 hours.

And, with the paperwork being completed just six minutes before today's 12 noon deadline, the 31-year-old will go straight into the squad for Rovers' biggest game of the season so far.

"I'm delighted we've managed to get him at the end of what has been a very busy week," said Williams.

"There was never any doubt in Graeme Souness's mind that he wanted Henning but the terms were difficult.

"However, we've now been able to mitigate that thanks to the co-operation of Manchester United.

"And Henning has also lowered his own demands which we are particularly pleased about because that underlines his determination to play for us.

"So, after missing out on Matthew Jones, the week has ended on a very strong point."

Rovers boss Graeme Souness had originally recommended to the Ewood board that signing Berg on a permanent basis would represent too much of a financial risk.

But in the last 48 hours, Rovers have managed to renegotiate some of the terms involved in the original move. And now Souness and the Ewood board believe they have secured a far more viable deal.

Berg has signed a contract until the end of next season and Rovers also have an option to extend it.

United have also agreed to spread the transfer payments over a longer period of time.

Berg's signing made it a double signing in the space of 24 hours after former Tranmere star Alan Mahon agreed to sign on loan from Sporting Lisbon until the end of the season yesterday.

But, if the 22-year-old is to feature against Burnley, then he must also have international clearance by 5pm today.

Rovers have started the process after registering the player with the English FA yesterday.

Now officials from Lancaster Gate must contact the Portuguese FA, who will in turn contact Sporting Lisbon to seek the necessary clearance.

Under rules regarding Bosman moves abroad, Rovers have agreed to pay Tranmere a small fee to loan Mahon from Sporting.

And, should they decide to buy the Republic of Ireland international at the end of the season, they will also pay John Aldridge's men a further six-figure sum.

"It was a really, really rewarding day yesterday after such a hectic week," said Williams.

"We've had to pay a small fee to Tranmere but the rules are there to protect clubs when players move abroad and I think they are fair. We'll be pushing like mad to get the international clearance in time but these things take time so I'd say it's probably 50/50."

Meanwhile, Rovers boss Graeme Souness is currently mulling over a request from Sheffield Wednesday to take keeper Alan Kelly on loan.