New Santa Cruz bid rejected

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City have been chasing Santa Cruz for much of the transfer window and went back with an increased bid for the Paraguayan on Thursday, only for Rovers to say no.

"Thursday afternoon we put an improved bid to Blackburn for Roque Santa Cruz but it was rejected," said Hughes.

Hughes confirmed City were still considering whether to pursue the matter any further, although Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce did suggest on Thursday that the Blues would be wasting their time as he would not be able to get a replacement.

They may get more joy in the pursuit of goalkeeper Shay Given though.

The Republic of Ireland international is believed to have put in a transfer request at Newcastle on Thursday night and has made it clear he would like to join the Eastlands club.

Hughes wants Given's experience to give City's defence more solidity and now he is waiting for the Magpies to make contact.

"We have put in a bid for Shay but we are still waiting for an update," he said.