By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: <a href='http://bit.ly/lRx0Da' class='instorylink'>@skygraemebailey</a>
Friday 8 July 2011 18:25, UK
Image:Witsel: Wanted by Blackburn and Benfica
Blackburn Rovers are keen on Belgian star Axel Witsel, skysports.com can confirm.
But Benfica emerge in battle for his signature
Blackburn Rovers are keen on Belgian star Axel Witsel, skysports.com can confirm.
However, Portuguese giants Benfica have also joined the chase and are hopeful of securing his signature.
Rovers are understood to have been pursuing the highly-rated 22-year-old midfielder for a number of weeks, and it is believed they were confident of clinching Witsel's signature - which would have been a huge coup for Steve Kean.
However, Benfica have now entered the frame for Witsel's signature.
Reports in Portugal claim they are now favourites to land the 22-year-old - rated as one of the best young midfielders in Europe.
Defour interest
Witsel's Standard Liege team-mate Steven Defour - who previously been linked with a move to England himself - is also reported a target for a move to Portugal.
Sporting Lisbon are understood to be keen, although Russian giants Lokomotiv Moscow are reportedly favourites to land him.
