Blackburn play down Beattie transfer link

Allardyce has been linked with a move for unsettled James Beattie (GETTY IMAGES)

Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce will only move for a new striker in January if one of his current forwards leaves the club.

Rovers, who may lose Franco Di Santo in the new year when his loan from Chelsea comes to an end, have been linked with moves for both Ruud van Nistelrooy of Real Madrid and Stoke's James Beattie in the forthcoming transfer window.

Allardyce admitted he had considered making an approach for Holland international Van Nistelrooy in the summer but said talk he might try to sign the former Manchester United striker after Christmas was just speculation.

"It's paper talk," Allardyce said.

"There was an interest in the summer when Roque (Santa Cruz) had left, but Ruud is still on a long-term rehab programme from his injury, so it's probably come from there."

Stoke striker Beattie is reported to be seeking a transfer after an alleged bust-up with manager Tony Pulis last weekend.

Allardyce is known for his ability to bring the best out of controversial players, but when asked about Beattie, he said: "James Beattie hasn't got a chequered past at all. I don't think he's ever got himself into any trouble.

"There's been a little bit of a scuffle at Stoke, but it's blown over now. It will all be done and dusted.

"We would only go into the area of a transfer on the frontline if one of our strikers ends up leaving in that January window."

Allardyce said he was satisfied with the striking options currently at his disposal and was hopeful Chelsea would agree to extend Di Santo's stay at Ewood Park to the end of the season.

"I've got four at the moment so I'm not in the market for any other strikers," said Allardyce.

"We are only waiting for Chelsea to make a decision on Franco as to whether there's a possibility he can stay or not.

"It is in their capable hands and hopefully they will be kind enough to allow us to keep him.

"I've got Niko (Kalinic), Jason (Roberts), Franco and Benni (McCarthy) so four is enough."