Blackburn deny that they did not complete the signing of Ivelin Popov because of work permit problems.
Premier League club say they pulled plug on deal
Blackburn have denied that they did not complete the signing of striker Ivelin Popov because of work permit problems.
The 22-year-old Bulgaria striker was thought to be a strong target of Rovers, but a deal for the Litex Lovech forward did not go through, with reports suggesting the British Government did not permit the move.
However, Blackburn insist that they pulled the plug last month, and it has emerged that failure to sell Jason Roberts may have prompted them to put the deal on hold.
Popov has scored three goals in 15 matches for Bulgaria since making his debut in 2007 and is expected to start Friday's opening European Championship qualifier against England at Wembley, although has had a number of injury problems over the past year.
Sam Allardyce was thought to be preparing a €3million (£2.5m) bid for Popov, but will now have to wait until January if he still harbours hope of bringing him to Ewood Park.
