• Argentinian striker has become a regular starter for Rovers
• Chelsea relaxed at losing Drogba and Kalou to Ivory Coast

Blackburn Rovers hope to extend Franco Di Santo’s loan deal after Chelsea indicated they do not require the Argentinian striker to cover for their losses at the African Cup of Nations in January.

The 20-year-old is due to return to Stamford Bridge on 31 December after a productive loan spell at Ewood Park in which, despite scoring only once in the Premier League, he has become a regular starter.

Chelsea originally insisted on a limited loan period given Didier Drogba’s and Salomon Kalou’s international commitments in Angola next month.

However, talks over an extension have progressed smoothly in recent days, with Di Santo’s regular first-team opportunities at Blackburn an influential factor for Chelsea, and an agreement is believed to be close. A permanent deal is not on Rovers’ agenda at this stage.

Blackburn RoversChelseaPremier LeagueAndy Hunterguardian.co.uk