Riquelme: Blackburn's Marquee signing?

After the failure to capture superstars, David Beckham and Ronaldinho, Blackburn Rovers have turned their attention to another fantastic player, Juan Roman Riquelme.
Rovers are in search of a big name who could propel their chances in the EPL and the search for a marquee player could end after Riquelme was offered to the club.

The Argentine playmaker is renowned for his passing and ability to dictate the pace
of the game. The ex- Villareal and Barcelona midfielder is currently playing at Boca Juniors.

Barry McIntosh, the agent who recently helped Jermaine Jones move to Blackburn, said that discussions regarding a deal for Riquelme have already started.

He told the Lancashire Telegraph: "I have spoken with Jerome Anderson, who is doing a lot of work for Blackburn Rovers, about Riquelme and it is being thought about. He could prove a great alternative to Ronaldinho, but there is nothing definite yet."

Blackburn are also looking to add another Argentine, in Mauro Formica from Newell's Old Boys. Formica is held in high regard and is touted to be one of the best of the generation in Argentina. West Ham had already launched an attempt to sign the midfielder but it proved futile.

McIntosh said: "I did offer this player to Jerome Anderson for Blackburn Rovers also. I understand he and his South American representatives are on their way to England to talk. It would have to be a permanent move as West Ham tried to sign him on loan before and that was flatly refused."

"He is one of the hottest players on the scene in South America at the moment. Maybe he would not make an immediate impact but Blackburn Rovers would be getting a phenomenal talent."

"Remember, he would be coming from a club who had had great players like Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona." McIntosh said.