Football: Blackburn in chase for pounds 4m Pole

Polish football could be the latest recipient of the Premiership's new-found wealth following news that Blackburn Rovers are prepared to pay Widzew Lodz pounds 4m for Alexander Citko.

The 21-year-old striker, who scored against England in the World Cup qualifying game at Wembley in October, is understood to be flying to Ewood Park this week for talks. Citko, believed to be a target also of Internazionale, became available upon Widzew's failure to qualify for the quarter-finals of the European Cup.

Howard Wilkinson is expected to be formally announced as the Football Association's first technical director today. His brief will stretch from overseeing the development of the game at grass roots level to working closely with the England coach, Glenn Hoddle.

Meanwhile, Francis Lee, the Manchester City chairman, has dismissed reports that the 53-year-old Wilkinson was his preferred choice for the Maine Road job prior to the appointment of Frank Clark. "That's total nonsense," he said. "We had a shortlist of three names, all three were interviewed and our recommendation was made to the board of directors. Everyone was unanimous that Frank Clark was the right man."

Leeds have rejected Tomas Brolin's request to train with his former club Parma. "If he wants to train he should do so with us because he is a Leeds player and we hold his registration," their chairman, Bill Fotherby, said.

Middlesbrough are to give Mirko Taccola, a central defender from Napoli, a two-week trial.