BLACKBURN striker Andy Cole claims it is vital that Graeme Souness is provided with the funds to make at least a couple of quality signings this summer.

Boss Souness wants to recruit at least four new faces over the coming few weeks as he looks to freshen up his squad in preparation for next season's assault on Europe.

For that to happen, it would require significant financial outlay from the board at a time when most clubs are trying to tighten their belts.

However, Cole believes it's imperative that Rovers do everything in their power to keep the momentum going from last season - and insists the only way forward is by adding to the squad.

"I think we need to make a few more signings. We need to be targeting people who can come in and make us a better team," said Cole.

"This team has got potential, like I said last season, and to finish in the top six on the budget we had, without really spending a lot of money, was a great achievement.

"But now we need to bring a few more players in to throw the club forward a bit more. These days, you never know what can happen if you take your eye off the ball for a second."

Souness is hoping to wrap up his first major transfer of the summer in the next few days by securing the signature of Lorenzo Amoruso from Rangers.

However, Rovers look to be facing fierce competition for the services of Millwall midfielder Steven Reid.

Rovers have already had a £2m bid for the Republic of Ireland ace turned down by the Lions.

Souness has fired back by claiming he will not enter into a bidding war for the 22-year-old who, despite his obvious talent, is still unproven at Premiership level.

But such a war looks likely after newly-promoted Portsmouth joined the race for Reid, who still has two-years left on his current contract.

Pompey boss Harry Redknapp is reported to have said: "Reid is a player with a big future. "He is going to cost £2m and I hope we have the cash to pay that sort of fee."

Yet Rovers' striker Cole admits he is more concerned by the continued speculation regarding the futures of David Dunn, Damien Duff and Brad Friedel.

"And former Manchester United ace Cole has pleaded with his current paymasters to do everything in their power to keep the stars at Ewood.

He added: "If you start selling your best players then you cannot move forward and be in a position to compete for the Champions League.

"At the end of the day, football is a business and to improve your team, you have to spend money and hang on to your better players."