Milan midfielder to arrive at Ewood?

Pirlo, currently somewhat out of favour at the San Siro and has only made 10 appearances for The Rossoneri this season, regardless of the fact that he is captain of Italy's Under-21 side.

Pirlo helped Italy's Under-21 side win the European Under-21 championship in Slovakia in the summer of 2000, and is regarded as a highly promising player for the future.

However, like during his spell at Inter Milan, Pirlo has had limited first-team opportunities and was on loan at Reggina in the 1999-2000 season.

A switch to Ewood Park is certainly a possibility as the attacking midfielder looks for regular first-team football.