Santa Cruz Back At EwoodFee: Loan

WorldwideFootall understand Blackburn have signed their former striker Roque Santa Cruz on loan from Manchester City until the end of the season.

The Paraguay international has struggled to make an impact at Eastlands since leaving Rovers in a £17.5million deal in summer 2009.

The 29-year-old, who scored 29 goals in two seasons at Ewood Park, is the club's first signing since their takeover by Indian firm Venky's in November.

Rovers confirmed the deal after the player completed a medical at the club's training ground on Friday morning.

City have hardened their stance on the issue of wages for loan players since agreeing to subsidise Craig Bellamy's move to Cardiff earlier this season and Blackburn will pay the majority of Santa Cruz's salary.

Kean believes that shows how serious Venky's are to bring top players to the club.

The company, who are yet to win over the fans, were ridiculed earlier this month for making over-ambitious attempts to sign Brazil star Ronaldinho.

The agreement with City contains no provision for a potential permanent deal but Kean plans to continue negotiating in the hope of securing Santa Cruz's services long term.

Santa Cruz has made just two appearances this season at City, where he has been behind Carlos Tevez, Mario Balotelli and Emmanuel Adebayor in the pecking order.

His move has been hastened by City's signing of Edin Dzeko this month.


Since Steve Kean has taken over Blackburn now find themselves in 10th place in the Premier League table, what can this signing do for Blackburn.  Is this a signing that could see Blackburn challenge for a Europa League slot or does mid-table sound about right?  Email jaymoe26@gmail.com to air your views

Roque Santa Cruz's career:

1997-1999 - Olimpia - 23 apps (13 goals)

1999-2007 - Bayern Munich - 155 apps (31 goals)

2007-2009 - Blackburn Rovers - 57 apps (23 goals)

2009 - Manchester City - 20 apps (3 goals)