Blackburn Rovers manager Sam Allardyce has once again reiterated that he has no interest in bringing former Newcastle United striker Michael Owen to Ewood Park this summer.

With Roque Santa Cruz having finally completed his move to Manchester City last week and doubts surrounding the future of Benni McCarthy, Allardyce is known to be keen on strengthening his attacking options ahead of the season opener against City on August 15th.

And while 'Big Sam' has admitted that he would be prepared to spend his entire transfer budget on signing a forward during the close season, he has ruled out a move for Owen, who is a free agent after his reported £120,000-a-week contract at St James' Park expired at the end of last month.

The 89-time England cap's management company, Wasserman Media Group, has circulated a brochure to prospective parties both at home and abroad, with Hull City and Stoke City already sounding their interest in signing the prolific hitman.

Allardyce, though, is adamant he will not be attempting to lure Owen to Blackburn after working with the former Liverpool and Real Madrid star during his spell on Tyneside as manager of the Magpies.

When asked if the 29-year-old was an option, Allardyce told Sky Sports News: "No, not for me. I don't think that we could afford him.

"I think that, from my point of view, with being at Newcastle, it has always been the injury threat.

"I can ill afford to sign a player who is going to be out of the team and has to really guarantee me 30-plus games a year.

"Unfortunately for Michael, if you look at the last few years, I can't take a gamble on that."