It is believed that 'Chelsea figures' met on Monday and discussed the prospect of luring the former Blues striker to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea seem to be one step away from announcing a successor to Avram Grant, who was sacked by the board ten days ago.

Apart from the Chelsea link, Rovers allowed Hughes to hold talks with Manchester City, following the departure of Sven Goran Eriksson on Monday.

Hughes had a fine 2007-2008 season at Ewood Park, leading Rovers to seventh place in the Premiership