Charlton look set to hold off the challenge of two Premiership
rivals to secure the loan services of Sevilla striker Kepa
Blanco.
The hit-man, who turns 23 on Saturday, is a product of Sevilla's
impressive youth system but has grown increasingly frustrated at
his lack of first-team action.
He started the campaign in superb style, bagging a hat-trick in the
4-0 victory over Levante on the opening day of the Spanish league
season.
However, he has since fallen behind the likes of Fredi Kanoute,
Luis Fabiano, Javier Chevanton and new signing Alexander Kerzhakov
and despite notching four more goals - all in the Uefa Cup - is now
ready to move on to secure regular football.
"At this time, I will be honest, something could well come of the
offer we are evaluating," Blanco stated on Tuesday, and it now
appears that Charlton will be the team that win the race for his
signature.
Manchester City and Everton, as well as a host of French clubs, are
also reported to be vying for the powerful forward, but having
settled on a move to the Premiership, The Valley seems most likely
to be his destination.
Blanco will move on loan for the remainder of the season with an
option to make the move permanent in the summer should both parties
consent.
The Spaniard would have preferred to secure a permanent transfer
immediately, but conceded that the current state of the transfer
market made that almost impossible.
"My priority was not to go on loan, but it is difficult for someone
to pay an important fee in these times," he added.
Addicks boss Alan Pardew is desperate to bolster his side's
firepower and, having missed out on Sunderland new boy Anthony
Stokes, clearly sees Blanco as the man to strengthen his
relegation-threatened outfit.