[Oliver_Kahn]

Hertha Berlin have revealed that they are poised to sell Christopher Samba to Blackburn Rovers.

The DR Congo international recently underwent a four-day trial spell at Ewood Park and clearly impressed Rovers boss Mark Hughes who is close to securing a permanent deal for the defender.

Samba's German employers are now awaiting final confirmation from their Premiership counterparts before the 22-year-old is allowed to pursue a career in England.

The defender is understood to have agreed a two-and-a-half year contract with Rovers and Hertha coach Falko Gotz is delighted that Samba has the chance to star in Lancashire.

"We are waiting for the fax to arrive at any minute. It would be great for him if it works out," said Gotz.

The prospective signing of Samba could end any interest Rovers had in Dynamo Kiev defender Andrei Nesmachny, with the Ukrainian side revealing they are growing frustrated with the ongoing silence from Ewood Park.

If the Hertha star does complete his move to Blackburn then he will act as a replacement for Andre Ooijer who is expected to miss the remainder of the season after breaking his leg and tearing ankle ligaments.

Hertha general manger Dieter Hoeness has expressed that the Bundesliga club understand Samba's desire to move on despite his current contract running until 2008.

"With Jerome Boateng and Christopher Schorch, we have two young defenders who are forcing their way into the first team," said Hoeness.

"So in that sense we can understand that Christopher wants to move to a club where he can play."

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