Allardyce bumps up bid to land Rovers defender Martin Olsson

West Ham United have pulled out the stops and made an improved offer in a bid to land Blackburn Rovers defender Martin Olsson. The Hammers are now offering £3.5million for the youngster.

It is understood that the Sweden international wants to leave Rovers and the initial bid of around £2.5m was rejected.Blackburn Rovers are reluctant to sell the 24 year-old Swede for anything less than £4million.

West Ham defender James Collins is going to be missed for about 4 weeks at least with a hamstring injury and Big Sam is keen on strengthening his defense.

Ludovic Sane has also been cited as a prospect for the Hammers and the Senegal international who is playing for French club Bordeaux is a versatile player who can play either midfield or defense. Northerners Newcastle have also expressed an interest in 26 year-old Ludovic Sane.

Newcastle United are currently waiting for an offer from AC Milan for Tim Krul, their 24 year old Dutch keeper and have added Lyon striker Bafetimbi Gomis to their list of transfer targets. Gomis has scored 11 goals in 19 games so far this season.