BLACKBURN boss Mark Hughes is running the rule over Uruguayan midfielder Gonzalo de los Santos.

After abandoning his interest in Korean striker Ahn Jung-Hwan, I can reveal that Hughes is now looking at former Valencia star de los Santos, who is hoping to secure a lucrative move to the Premiership in January.

Although strengthening the midfield is not a top priority - in fact, Rovers are overloaded with players in that department - Hughes has still taken the opportunity to take a closer look at the vastly experienced South American, who is available to sign on a free transfer.

By all accounts, the 29-year-old has made a favourable impression over the last few days at Brockhall but talk of a move is still somewhat premature as Hughes would prefer to sign a striker in the window to replace Matt Jansen.

Nevertheless, de los Santos still has an impressive pedigree having made his name in Spain with Valencia and he's also been a regular at international level with Uruguay, for whom he appeared at the last World Cup.