Allardyce eyeing new Davies deal

Davies hasn't scored since the opening day of the season

Boss Sam Allardyce admits he is eager to thrash out a new deal to keep striker Kevin Davies at the club.

The 29-year-old has yet to sign a new contract and will become a free agent at the end of the season.

"There's an urgency about Kevin's situation because we started talks last summer," Allardyce told the Daily Star.

"As always, it is a long and difficult process and we're never quite there in terms of what the player wants, but I hope we can come to an agreement."

Davies could even be lured away from the Reebok Stadium in January's transfer window and Allardyce has urged the club's board to find the cash to keep the influential target man.

He added in the Daily Mirror: "We're trying to negotiate but it's difficult for a club like us.

"We have a problem hitting the figures he wants but I hope we come to a solution.

"Kevin is playing terrifically well for us again this season and I don't think there is anywhere better for him to be at and that is something he has to consider."