BLACKBURN Rovers are hoping to have Dickson Etuhu on board in time for this evening’s pre-season friendly in Holland – as they look set to make their seventh summer signing.

The Lancashire Telegraph understands Rovers were close to agreeing a fee for the Fulham midfielder last night, in the region of £1.5million, and are confident of sealing the deal today.

The 30-year-old Nigerian is keen to come to East Lancashire, having talked to former Cottagers team mate Danny Murphy, with personal terms understood to not be a problem.

Rovers were last night attempting to finalise the transfer with Fulham but were hopeful there would be no stumbling blocks.

Meanwhile Rovers have made a formal bid for Huddersfield Town hot shot Jordan Rhodes as they do battle with Premier League Fulham for his signature.

It is understood a bid for the 22-year-old Scottish international was made by Rovers yesterday, after being given the go-ahead by owners Venky’s.

It would take an offer in excess of £6million to land the highly-rated youngster, but Rovers are willing to offer a lucrative individual package in an attempt to see off their Premier League rivals.

Rovers have been quietly searching for a central midfielder to partner Murphy, since being rejected in their efforts to sign Sporting Lisbon midfielder Adrien Silva.

They have already added Leon Best, Murphy, Nuno Gomes, Fabio Nunes, Edinho and Paulo Jorge to their squad for the coming Championship campaign - and are planning a few more yet.

The addition of Etuhu is likely to be their last move in the midfield department, but two strikers and a versatile defender are still on their wish list.

Rovers travelled to Holland yesterday, ahead of their two games in three days this weekend.

Rovers play Go Ahead Eagles in Deventer this evening before travelling to NEC Nijmegen for a clash on Sunday.

Even if Etuhu is not signed in time for this evening, Rovers would hope to get pen to paper in time for their second match on tour.

The 30-year-old started his career at Manchester City, before signing for Preston in 2002 for £300,000.

He made more than 150 appearances for Preston in four years at the club, before enjoying spells at Norwich City and Sunderland.

The 6ft 2ins midfielder has been at Fulham since 2008 but has been told this summer he is surplus to requirements at Craven Cottage.