Rovers to steal Stead?

Blackburn Rovers have confirmed tonight that they have made an offer to Huddersfield for highly-rated striker Jon Stead.

Rovers sealed the transfer of former Sunderland skipper Mickey Gray earlier this week, and hinted at the time that further purchases could be in the pipeline - and the January transfer window is only open until this weekend.

Sunderland made an offer said to be £800,000 several weeks ago, and Bob Murray confirmed only last week that the offer was still "on the table". But Rovers' interest will up the stakes and either force Sunderland to table a higher offer, or force their withdrawal. However the fact that Mickey Gray's reported £25,000 per week wages are now off the accounts at the Stadium of Light, means that Murray may be in a position to table an improved bid if he and Mick McCarthy think the player is worth it.

Blackburn Rovers issued a statement tonight saying "Rovers can confirm that they have made an offer for Huddersfield's young striker Jonathan Stead. There is nothing further to add at this time."