THE signing of a top striker remains the number one priority at Blackburn Rovers this summer – despite reports linking the club with a sensational swoop for Real Madrid star Guti.

Transfer funds for manager Sam Allardyce are limited, despite a top-10 finish in the Premier League, and he is keen to bring a leading attacker to Ewood Park before the start of the World Cup.

Frederic Piquionne, who played in Portsmouth’s FA Cup final defeat against Chelsea on Saturday, remains a top target.

But Allardyce has a history for attracting big names, and is also eyeing a move for Guti – with the help of defender Michel Salgado, a former Real Madrid team-mate.

The Lancashire Telegraph can reveal there has been no official contact between Rovers and the player, and the Spaniard’s wage demands could be a huge sticking point.

But Allardyce believes he has room in his budget for another ‘big name’ signing.

Guti, 33, has spent the last 15 years at the Bernabeu, but is looking to move on, and is available on a free transfer.

Several clubs want the midfielder, and Turkish giants Galatasaray have already made him an offer.

But Allardyce believes Salgado can persuade Guti to join him at Blackburn.

Salgado has been impressed with the set-up at Brockhall, and the lifestyle in the North West of England.

And he’ll be the key to any deal.

Allardyce may be able to free up funds in his budget, although Guti’s wage demands are likely to be at the top end of Rovers’ wage structure.

Chairman John Williams is still waiting for a decision from Morten Gamst Pedersen on his future after offering him an improved deal, and he expects an answer this week.

That decision will affect the summer transfer budget, and where the club will move in the market.