Blackburn ready to off-load Salgado

Former Real Madrid defender Michel Salgado has been told he can leave Blackburn when the transfer window opens in January.

Salgado's agent met Rovers chiefs in Madrid recently to confirm this season would be the Spanish right-back's last at Ewood Park and Blackburn boss Steve Kean revealed the decision on Monday.

Rovers' owners Venky's are looking to trim costs and the 36-year-old is one of the first victims of the cost-cutting.

"Michel won't be here next season," Kean said. "If there is an opportunity for him to find another solution in this window that is something we would look at.

"(It is) out of respect for the player to give him the heads up that this will be his last season."

Salgado, who made 53 appearances for Spain, enjoyed a glittering career with Real, winning the Champions League in 2000 and 2002 and also lifting four La Liga titles.

But his two-year spell at Ewood Park has been marred by injuries and Blackburn's poor form.