J Rhodes could move to Middlesbrough

Jordan Rhodes could be set to move from Blackburn to Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough are in advanced talks with Blackburn over the potential signing of striker Jordan Rhodes, according to VICBALL sources.

Manager Paul Lambert has repeatedly urged the Rovers hierarchy not to sell the club's star striker this month but the picture may have changed with the arrival of former Celtic forward Tony Watt at Ewood Park. Rhodes has left the Blackburn squad that had travelled south for the FA Cup tie at Oxford and now will have talks and undergo a medical with Middlesborough on Saturday. VICBALL sources understand the deal is expected to be worth £11m in total - £9m up front and £2m in add-ons. A statement on Rovers website read: "We can confirm that we have reluctantly given Middlesbrough permission to speak to striker Jordan Rhodes.

"The player has expressed his desire to talk to the Teesside club and will travel to the North East for discussions."

Watt has joined Rovers on loan from Charlton while Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka has been keen to make further additions before the transfer window closes on Monday.

Boro had been linked with a move for Fulham's Ross McCormack

Karanka is eager to sign a proven goalscorer capable of stepping up to the Premier League, and Boro - currently second in the Championship - previously have been linked with both Rhodes and Fulham's Ross McCormack.

When asked about Rhodes earlier this week, Lambert said: "It's the same situation as it was when I first came to the club. I've not heard anything. I chat with the chief executive and until someone tells me different then it's the same situation."

Rhodes has scored 85 goals in 169 matches for Blackburn since leaving Huddersfield, where he netted 87 times in 148 games, in a deal worth up to £8m in August 2012.