[Archived] News Article -> Samba Set To Leave

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Numerous reliable sources have indicated that Blackburn Rovers captain Chris Samba is set to move to Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala. It is reported that a deal of £11 million has been agreed between the two clubs. Anzhi have until 9pm tonight (UK Time) to complete the deal for Samba.

Samba has not played for Rovers since the Stoke game and has recently been training away from the first team after he handed in a transfer request during the January transfer window. Steve Kean stated on numerous occasions that Samba was not for sale and when the transfer window closed, Rovers fans hoped that he would remain at the club until the end of the season.

Should Samba leave, then Rovers would not be able to sign a replacement until the end of the season and will be left with just three recognised centre-backs in Dann, Givet and Hanley. It is also being reported by the Sporting Intelligence website that the bulk of the transfer fee received from the Samba sale will be taken by Barclays and will help to secure Rovers' immediate financial position with the bank.

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