SAINTS were today lining up a sensational swap deal which would bring striker Kevin Davies back to The Dell - and see Egil Ostenstad move to Blackburn Rovers.

It is thought that Saints are prepared to cash in on the Norwegian marksman who they would lose for nothing at the end of the season under the Bosman ruling. Sources in the North say Ostenstad has already had talks at Ewood Park.

In return Saints boss Dave Jones has asked for Davies who has had a nightmare time since joining the Lancashire club for £7.25 million in June of last year.

It is believed Davies would jump at the chance of a return to the club where he did so well although he would probably have to take a drop in wages.

If the proposed deal goes ahead, Davies will head South for talks and a medical later this week but everything will hinge on whether Ostenstad is prepared to drop down a division even though it would guarantee his financial future.

Fenerbahce are waiting in the wings with a £4 million offer for Ostenstad and the Turkish club's vice-president watched yesterday's 4-2 win over Newcastle.

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