Doncaster Rovers begin Mamadou Diarra discussions

Championship club Doncaster Rovers have opened up discussion with former Real Madrid midfielder Mahamadou Diarra over a move to the Keepmoat Stadium, according to BBC Radio Sheffield.

The 30-year-old, who spent four years at the Bernabau up until 2010, has been a free agent since his contract with French club AS Monaco expired in the summer.

Talks are only at an early stage but the Mali captain's representatives are said to be keen to listen to what manager Dean Saunders has to say.

Rovers are also thought to be close to signing West Ham United striker Frederic Piquionne after a barren spell for the Frenchman in front of goal this season.

Should the pair decide to join the club, they will take the number of new faces to arrive in recent days up to five following the signings of Pascal Chimbonda and Herita Ilunga.