Blackburn Rovers are chasing Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.

The Daily Mail says the former Manchester United star is in line to make a dramatic Premier League return when the transfer window re-opens for business in January with Ewood Park emerging a surprise destination for the Holland international.

But Sam Allardyce faces strong competition to secure the striker's services with former club Bolton, Fulham, Sunderland and Birmingham all keen on the £3million-rated man.

Van Nistelrooy has been restricted to just 23 minutes of competitive football at the Bernabeu this season and the frustrated 33-year-old is keen to move on in the New Year in order to keep his hopes of winning a place at the World Cup in South Africa.