And Sukur could move to Ewood Park for free if he impresses the Rovers boss, who has been disappointed by the form of Andy Cole and Dwight Yorke this season.

Souness said: "The plan is for Hakan to train with us over the next few days and then we'll take it from there. He is not tied to a club so, in theory, we could sign him after that. But we will have to wait and see."

Sukur forged a reputation as one of Europe's leading strikers whilst at Galatasary, scoring goals whatever the opposition. However, after a lean spell in Italy, the chance of a permanent move to England could act as a kick start to his career.

And of course, Sukur's playing in the Premiership will mean that England will be able to keep a close eye on the player who poses the biggest goal threat in the two crunch encounters coming next year.