Rovers sign attacking duo

Premier League club Blackburn Rovers have confirmed the dual signing of Ruben Rochina and Mauro Formica.

Both players move to Ewood Park on permanent deals with Rochina joining from Spanish giants Barcelona and Formica making the switch from Argentinean side Newell’s Old Boys.

Rochina, a 19-year-old striker and Spain under-19 international, has progressed through Barca’s youth system, leaving Rovers manager Steve Kean excited about the acquisition.

“He is a genuine addition to our squad, a young player with great ability who can play in a number of attacking positions,” Kean said.

“Ruben joins our elite development group alongside the likes of Phil Jones and Junior Hoilett and will compete for a place in the team from the word go.”

“The fact we are able to sign young players from the likes of Barcelona is further evidence of the owners’ intention to push the club forward.”

“They told me they were keen to add to our youth development group and this is a significant and exciting signing for us.”

Rochina has netted twice in 13 appearances for Barcelona’s reserves this season, who play in Spain’s second tier.

Formica, 22, is a highly-rated Argentina under-17 international who will add strength and depth to the Rovers midfield.

“Mauro is a fantastic talent, an attacking player who has been in great demand,” Kean said of the attacking midfielder.

“He has great technical ability and is a typical Argentinian with a bit of fight and a bit of devilment in him.”