Blackburn bag Matteo

Blackburn have confirmed the signing of Leeds defender Dominic Matteo.

The Scottish international becomes Rovers third signing of the summer after Paul Dickov and Javier de Pedro.

The former Liverpool player has agreed a three-year deal after signing on a free transfer.

Matteo’s departure will further cut relegated Leeds’ wage bill following the recent departures of Paul Robinson, Alan Smith, James Milner and Nick Barmby.

Mark Viduka is also close to completing a deal with Middlesbrough, Republic of Ireland international left-back Ian Harte is in talks with Spanish club Levante and Michael Duberry is in continuing discussions with Wolves.

Leeds’ new chief operating officer Shaun Harvey said: “With regard to Michael Duberry, I think he still remains keen to join Wolves, but one of the issues to be resolved is the terms on which he leaves Leeds. Those discussions are ongoing.

“Ian Harte’s agent has discussed the matter of the opportunity that could be available for Ian in Spain and he has permission to speak to them.

“We believe his agent will be continuing these discussions during this week. He has promised to keep us informed all the way.”