Aproniano Santa Cruz claims his son will not give up hope on a switch to Eastlands while the transfer window remains open.

Blackburn have already knocked back one £15million bid for the striker and, although City have not returned with an improved offer, the player's father believes a move is still a possibility.

Blackburn have been linked with Racing Santander forward Nikola Zigic and Red Bull Salzburg's Marc Janko as a possible replacement for Santa Cruz.

And the player's father told Teledeportes.com.py: "I think it is quite natural that the team search for a replacement.

"As long as the transfer window does not close, negotiations are still continuing.

"I have a feeling that it may be possible. The conditions are real and there are not many differences.

"In a negotiation, the money factor is always the most important."

"According to the City coach (Mark Hughes), he will keep trying to sign him."