BURNLEY target Peter Crouch has issued a "Come and get me" plea to First Division clubs.

The 6ft 6in gangly striker, who was relegated from the First Division with QPR last season, is their hottest property and is expected to leave this summer as the cash-strapped club look to raise money.

Crouch has been valued at around £1.5m and has admitted he fancies staying in Division One.

The former Tottenham striker said: "I have enjoyed my time with QPR and am happy here.

"Like any player I want to play at the highest level possible and would like a chance to play in the First Division again and higher if possible."

But Portsmouth are also keen on the Macclesfield-born player - and Burnley manager Stan Ternent faces a tough battle if he wants Crouch as Pompey manager Graham Rix has around £12m in his kitty to spend this summer.

He is already reported to have had a bid for the Rangers striker turned down.

"He is 20 and he is only going to get better," said the Portsmouth boss.

"I think he s very good technically - he reminds me a little bit of Tore Andre Flo."

Crouch admitted: "I haven't heard anything from Portsmouth but it is a First Division club and there is potential there."

Sources in London say they wouldnt be surprised if Burnley make a bid for Crouch in the next few days - although it would break the transfer record of £1.1m spent on frontman Ian Moore - but Sunderland are also said to be keeping an eye on events. Portsmouth, meanwhile, are also said to be chasing Fulham's Barry Hayles for a cost of around £3m. Meanwhile another potential Clarets target, Manchester United full-back Denis Irwin has been linked with a move across the city to Maine Road.

Irwin, 35, is currently on holiday thinking over a one-year offer from Old Trafford but has been connected with several clubs, including Burnley.

The Republic of Ireland international is said to be one Ternent has expressed an interest in Irwin, although new Manchester City boss Kevin Keegan may persuade him to join the new revolution at Maine Road.

Irwin has also been linked with Celtic and a move to Middlesbrough.