Blackburn Rovers are today bracing themselves for a latest bid for Paraguayan striker Roque Santa Cruz from Manchester City - after rejecting one in the region of £15million late last week.

The club though would be determined to line up a replacement for Santa Cruz before even considering parting with their prized asset - with obvious candidates very thin on the ground.

Rovers are still insistent there is no pressure to sell Santa Cruz, for whatever price, as they realise adequate striking options are vital in their bid to preserve their Premier League safety.

Rovers chairman John Williams declined to discuss any potential transfer targets but did admit this January was turning out to be a particularly slow window.

He said: “It is far easier to sell than it is to buy and that is why you are seeing little activity anywhere this January.

“In January prices are inflated and there is no doubt it is a difficult period for any club.”