The 22-year-old forward has agreed terms with Rovers and will sign on a season-long loan deal from Audax Italiano - subject to a work-permit being attained.

Villanueva is the Chilean Player of the Year and has 12 caps to his name, and Rovers are confident that he will gain the permit needed to play in England.

He arrives from Audax, but was almost playing in Spain for Real Sociedad - but his move to San Sebastian was called off when the Segunda Liga side hit financial difficulties.

New Rovers boss Paul Ince has wasted little time in recognising Villanueva's potential and setting up the deal.

Rovers hope the deal can be confirmed within the next few days and he could become Ince's first signing since taking charge.

Villanueva has admitted to the Chilean media that he is waiting to seal his move to England.

"Hopefully something good will come, something that suits men and the club," he said.

"But I prefer not to talk about it too much until it is concrete."

As well as setting up a move for Villanueva, Ince is also still hoping to check on Ecuadorian Segundo Castillo.

Castillo is due to link-up with Rovers for a trial period.

"He's a player who was brought to Paul's notice by agents," said Rovers chairman John Williams.

"Paul has done research but feels he cannot commit to this signing without the benefit of seeing the player.

"Rovers have not pulled back from any position. We have never agreed to the transfer, let alone a fee.

"Nevertheless, the player is of sufficient interest for us to proceed in the manner we have suggested."