Hope Akpan closing in on Blackburn Rovers switch?

Blackburn Rovers are reportedly closing in on a move for Reading midfielder Hope Akpan.

The 23-year-old watched from the stands on the weekend as Rovers lost their opening Championship fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

No deal has yet been reached between the two clubs, and according to the Lancashire Telegraph, the only way a move will go through is if the Royals cancel the former Everton product's contract or agree to send him out on loan.

That is because of the Financial Fair Play embargo still hanging over the Ewood Park side, which is restricting their transfer activity.

Akpan, who has 11 months left to run on his current contract, would become Rovers' fifth summer signing should he get the green light to complete his switch.