IPSWICH Town have had an improved offer for Francis Jeffers flatly turned down by Blackburn Rovers.However, manager Jim Magilton today said he would pursue all avenues to try and sign the Premiership striker.

By Elvin King

IPSWICH town have had an improved offer for Francis Jeffers flatly turned down by Blackburn Rovers.

However, manager Jim Magilton today said he would pursue all avenues to try and sign the Premiership striker.

Blackburn's chairman John Williams has turned down the improved Blues offer for the ex-England star saying: “It is not acceptable to us at the moment.”

Rovers are reported to be asking £1million for the 26-year-old with latest Ipswich bid believed to be around half that figure plus some add-ons.

Rovers feel that Jeffers' success on loan at Ipswich when he scored four goals at the end of last season could pave the way to him playing a part for them in 2007-2008 with his contract running out in 12 months time.

Blackburn have confirmed they have had no other offers for the striker who is keen on a switch to Suffolk and to play in the Championship with Town.

Magilton said today: “We will pursue the signing of Franny as far as we can.

“He is a player we want at the club but if it is not going to happen then it is best for us to understand this sooner rather than later so we can explore other avenues.”

Magilton feels that Jeffers' desire to sign full time for Ipswich could swing the issue Town's way.

“If Franny sticks to his guns we have a real chance of getting him”, said Magilton.

“His next move is a massive move for him and from what he has said he wants to win his way back into the Premiership on his own agenda.

“We are pulling out all the stops to sign him as we recognise we need another goalscorer to take the pressure of Alan Lee.

“He is still our number one priority and clubs are still in discussion over his transfer.”

Magilton said he would be interested in Jamie Cureton who has asked for a move from Colchester, if the Jeffers signing does not happen.

“I believe Southampton are very interested and we would also have some other irons in the fire but we would keep abreast of the Jamie Cureton situation”, said Magilton.