Blackburn eye Reading’s Nigeria ace

Blackburn Rovers are reportedly monitoring Reading midfielder Hope Akpan.

Manager Gary Bowyer is keen to strengthen his squad ahead of the close of the transfer window, with the Royals’ Akpan a top target for their Championship rivals.

The 24-year-old, who joined Reading from Crawley Town in 2013, failed to score in 23 appearances in all competitions for Steve Clarke’s side last season.

It is understood that the Nigeria international was watching in the stands as Blackburn lost out 2-1 to Wolverhampton Wanderers on the opening day of the season at Ewood Park.

The former Everton graduate has just 11 months remaining on his current deal at the Madejski Stadium and would become Bowyer’s fifth summer signing at Rovers if a deal materialises.