Rovers weighing up a move for former Benfica and Portugal striker Gomes (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Rovers weighing up a move for former Benfica and Portugal striker Gomes

7:58am Wednesday 27th June 2012 in Football By Andy Cryer , Blackburn Rovers reporter

BLACKBURN Rovers are weighing up a move for former Portugal and Benfica star Nuno Gomes as they continue efforts to increase their Championship fire power.

With last season’s top scorer Yakubu set to seal a £1million move to China, Rovers are keen to add at least two more strikers to their ranks, with Gomes understood to be pushing for a move to England.

Sources close to the 35-year-old have told the Lancashire Telegraph he is very keen on a switch to Ewood Park, with Rovers as yet undecided on whether to make the move.

The club are believed to have shown an initial interest though as boss Steve Kean considers his striking options after last season’s Premier League relegation.

Newcastle United striker Leon Best is understood to be Rovers’ immediate priority, with further talks expected imminently, after a fee in the region of £3million is understood to have been agreed between the clubs.

Ranger striker Steven Naismith is also believed to be on Kean’s radar, as he looks for an exit from the troubled Glasgow club, along with a long list of other potential options.

The addition of Gomes would just be regarded as a ‘bonus’ by the club if they opted to swoop, with his record in front of goal speaking for itself.

Gomes scored more than 100 goals during two spells at Benfica, between 1997 and 2000 and 2002 and 2011, having established his reputation at Boavista. He also enjoyed a stint at Italian outfit Fiorentina.

The striker, who turns 36 next month, has also enjoyed an illustrious international career, spanning 15 years. He helped Portugal to runners up in Euro 2004 and third place in the tournament four years later.

After being released by Benfica, he spent last season at fellow countrymen Sporting Braga but is now available on a free transfer.

Rovers have declined to comment on transfer speculation as they look to conduct their summer business behind closed doors.

Meanwhile, Yakubu is expected to complete his move to Chinese outfit Guangzhou R&F in the next few days, having held talks with them over the weekend.

The striker is expected to be followed out of the exit door by Junior Hoilett, although the out of contract winger has yet to commit himself to any club.

The Lancashire Telegraph also understands Italian giants Juventus have shown an interest in want away full back Martin Olsson.

Rovers are believed to have already turned down a £1.5million for the Swedish international this summer from an unnamed club.