Blackburn Rovers are now unlikely to complete a move for Ibrahima Kone during the current transfer window, according to a report from French outlet L'Equipe.

It is understood that Lorient are expected to retain the services of Kone this month after the forward was heavily linked with a move to Ewood Park.

Blackburn were seemingly set to bolster their attacking options by signing Kone on loan and had reached an agreement in principle with Lorient.

However, the Ligue 1 side have seemingly altered their perspective regarding a departure and thus Blackburn will now have to switch their attention to other targets.

Capped on 14 occasions by Mali at international level, Kone has been utilised on a regular basis by Lorient this season.

In the 21 appearances that he has made in all competitions, the forward has managed to find the back of the net on four occasions while he has also chipped in with one assist.

The 23-year-old started for Lorient in their victory over Stade Rennes last Friday and is expected to feature in the club's clash with Stade Reims on Wednesday.

Blackburn meanwhile will be looking to book their place in the fifth round of the FA Cup tomorrow when they face Birmingham City.

The initial meeting between these two sides in this competition ended in a 2-2 draw last weekend.

The Verdict

This is unquestionably a blow for Blackburn as they were seemingly on course to complete a move for Konate.

With time now running out to make additions to their squad, it will be interesting to see whether the Rovers will be able to bolster their attacking options before the window shuts.

Given that Ben Brereton Diaz is expected to join Villarreal in the summer when his contract expires, Blackburn will need to source a long-term replacement for their talisman.

The Chile international has scored 10 goals and has provided four assists for his team-mates this season and will be aiming to spearhead Rovers' push for the play-offs in the coming months before moving on to pastures new.