Defender Balkestein to join on loan

Reports from down South have stated that Dale are to sign Dutch defender Pim Balkestein on loan until January from League One rivals Brentford.

The Hounslow Chronicle has reported that Dale have signed Balkestein on loan until the next transfer window, with a view to a permanent transfer. He has two years left on his contract with Brentford.

The 24 year old came to English football during the 2007-8 season, when he signed for Ipswich Town. He spent two years with the Suffolk side, before signing for Brentford after two successful spells with the club.

If this signing goes through, it could mean a spell on the sidelines for Marcus Holness. Steve Eyre has been quoted as suggesting that he wants more height in the side, and Balkestein fills that role. He is left footed - another issue that has been raised.

Comments from Brentford supporters suggest that he is a good player but has suffered due to the number of decent centre backs that they have on their books.

If you are wanting an omen, then Balkestein grabbed his first goal in English football in a 3-2 victory away at Oldham. Assuming the signing is cleared in time for Saturday's game, he may get the chance to repeat that feat.

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