Blackburn look to World Cup winner to secure Premier League survival

Blackburn Rovers will attempt to boost their hopes of Premier League survival by signing former Italy international Vincenzo Iaquinta from Juventus.

According to reports from Italy, the 31-year-old is deemed surplus to requirements and Blackburn are keen to add him to their squad following the collapse of the potential deal to bring Spanish star Raul to Ewood Park.

It is thought that Spanish side Real Betis are also interested in Iaquinta and will push Blackburn all the way for his signature.

Juventus are reported to be open to offers for a player who was part of Italy’s 2006 World Cup winning squad and who was also linked with Tottenham in the spring.

Blackburn boss Steve Kean has now made Iaquinta his top transfer target before the close of the transfer window at the end of the month.

The Italian scored six times in 22 appearances last season for Juventus and has hit double figures in Serie A in four different seasons, although the last time he did this was in 2009.

Following their opening fixture of the season which saw a disappointing 2-1 home loss against Wolves, Blackburn’s odds for relegation have dropped to 2/1 putting them amongst the favourites for the drop.

Rovers were one of the lowest scorers in the Premier League last season managing only 46 goals and Kean knows if they are to retain their place in the top flight they must improve on that record.

The club had hoped the solution would come in the shape of Spanish striker Raul after they had a £3million bid accepted by German club Schalke for his services.

Raul, however, opted to stay put forcing Blackburn to turn their attentions to Iaquinta.