BLACKBURN Rovers today insisted they have not made a bid for Wigan Athletic striker Jason Roberts.

Roberts' agent, Willie Mckay, claims Blackburn are one of five clubs chasing the 28-year-old, who is refusing to sign a new contract with the Latics.

As yet, Rovers have not had any contact with Wigan regarding the unsettled forward, but the Lancashire Evening Telegraph understands the former West Brom forward could still emerge as a possible target for Mark Hughes if he fails to land the players at the top of his wish list this summer.

Responding to the latest round of speculation, Rovers chairman, John Williams, said: "We've not had any contact with Wigan regarding Jason Roberts."

Roberts looks certain to leave the JJB this summer after he described the Latics' contract offer as totally unacceptable'.

Turkish club Besiktas have already made three unsuccessful bids for the wantaway striker, but Roberts would prefer to stay in the Premiership if possible next season and his camp claim a number of clubs are interested.

"There have been three different offers from Besiktas, but they have been rejected by Wigan," said McKay "He is looking to get the okay from Wigan to allow him to talk to them. I am aware of the interest from Birmingham, but as far as we know there has been no offer.

"There has been talk but nothing has been done. I believe Aston Villa, Charlton and Blackburn are keeping tabs on him."

Manager Mark Hughes has made no secret of the fact he would like to bring in at least one new striker this summer but, after failing to land Chelsea's Eidur Gudjohnsen, he is now considering moves for Mido, Nikola Zigic, and Emile Heskey.