Blackburn Rovers are considering a move for Benjani Mwaruwari following the Zimbabwe international's release by Manchester City.

The 31-year-old has trained with Sam Allardyce's squad this week as Rovers look to strengthen their striking options ahead of the new Premier League season. Allardyce has spent the summer searching for an inexpensive solution to his side's lack of goals last term and, though he signed Mame Biram Diouf on a season-long loan from Manchester United last week, believes another striker is required.

Benjani endured a miserable spell at City following his £3.9m transfer from Portsmouth in February 2008, scoring just four times in 23 appearances for the club before being allowed to join Sunderland on loan last season.

Steve Bruce declined the option to sign the striker on a permanent basis but, given Blackburn's needs and his availability on a free transfer, Benjani could complete a move to Ewood Park should he impress in training this week.

By The Guardian UK