BLACKBURN Rovers today shot down speculation linking them with a sensational swoop for Ewood old-boy Chris Sutton.

A story in one of the tabloid papers over the weekend claimed Rovers were about to launch a £1.5 million bid to bring Sutton back to the Premiership.

But although the 30-year-old striker was discussed as a possible target several weeks ago, circumstances have since changed as a result of the injury to Barry Ferguson.

Rovers boss Graeme Souness has limited funds to play with in the transfer market and his priority is now a central midfielder rather than a striker.

"That's the type of striker that we need but we've got no money," said Souness.

"Every goal we score has to be a perfect goal. We need someone to mix it up but we haven't got the cash to bring anyone in."

A move to bring Sutton back to Ewood would have caused quite a stir as the former Rover was a huge favourite among supporters during his first spell at the club when he formed half of the title-winning SAS goal machine partnership with Alan Shearer.

However, Celtic would demand at least £1.5 million for a player who is the top-scoring Englishman in the Champions League this season, which makes him too expensive for Rovers.

Souness's attempts to land Leicester's Muzzy Izzet also look doomed to failure.

The Foxes rejected an initial bid of £500,000 on Friday and their manager Micky Adams seems determined to hang onto the 29-year-old, even if it means losing him on a free in the summer when his contract runs out.

Rovers have also been frustrated in their quest to sign Aston Villa's Peter Enckelman.

Villa have already rejected one bid off Rovers for the Finn but Souness may well come back with an improved offer as he is desperate for some experienced cover for Brad Friedel in the continued absence of Alan Kelly.

Souness's hand might be strengthened slightly if Italian side Ancona follow up their interest in Dino Baggio.

The Serie A club, who recently signed Ciccio Grabbi, are interested in taking over Baggio's contract until the end of the season - a deal Rovers would be keen on.

If that were to happen then it would at least free up some money in the wage bill.

Swedish outfit AIK Solna are also said to be interested in Nissa Johansson.