Blackburn agree deal for Argentine striker Pavone

Posted Friday, July 15, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

English Premier League club Blackburn Rovers agreed a deal to sign Argentine striker Mariano Pavone on a free transfer on Friday.

Pavone is out of contract after buying out the last year of his deal with Spanish club Real Betis following a loan spell at River Plate in Argentina last season.

The 29-year-old, who does not need a work permit as he has EU citizenship, arrived in England earlier this week to discuss a move to Ewood Park and is now set to sign a three-year contract after agreeing terms with Rovers.

It is expected that Blackburn will now confirm the signing in the next few days before officially presenting him on Monday.

Pavone's British representative Barry McIntosh confirmed that the deal was in place.

"Mariano is delighted to get his chance in English football, he has spoken to several clubs but he was particularly impressed by (Blackburn coach) Steve Kean," McIntosh told SkySports.com.

"Steve made him feel very welcome and explained his plans, and Mariano was delighted with what he heard.

"He is now looking forward to the next chapter with an ambitious club like Blackburn."