Midfielder Robbie Savage, one of the all-time masters in provoking opponent, has been acquired by Blackburn Rovers for a £3 million transfer fee paid to Birmingham City.

Chelsea, Inter and Juventus are all said to be chasing River Plate midfielder Javier Mascherano. Former Chelsea striker Adrian Mutu, dumped earlier this season following cocaine charges, has a transfer to Juventus on hold pending his unfair dismissal hearing against the London club.