Khizanishvili has impressed in his time at Blackburn

The versatile 24-year-old has made 22 appearances for Rovers since arriving on loan, having fallen out of favour with 'Gers boss Alex McLeish.

Hughes said: "I have talked to Zurab and the club have started negotiations with his advisors.

"We are hopeful we can do something and conclude a deal. Zurab has made a real impact. He has played really well."

Chairman John Williams added: "We have every intention of trying to make this a permanent arrangement. We hope to do this before the end of the season. Talks have taken place."

Williams also handed encouragement to the club's youngsters by saying that a continuing "worrying decline" in attendances at Ewood Park meant Academy players had a vital role to play in the club's future.

"It is vital given our limited resources that our young players are given every chance and encouragement to reach and sustain first-team level," Williams told shareholders in the club's annual report.