Zambian Mbesuma, one of the hottest properties in African football, scored 35 goals for South African champions Kaizer Chiefs last season as his team stormed to a second successive title.

The 21-year-old is hoping to visit England next week to discuss a move to the Reebok Stadium but is currently waiting for a visa.

Allardyce heads the queue to sign the South African Player of the Year and Golden Boot winner.

"Collins Mbesuma is a player who would interest us. He is a prolific goalscorer who has had a fantastic season in South Africa," said Allardyce on Tuesday.

The Chiefs talked up their star forward but have vowed not to stand in the way of a dream European move.

"He is the best I have come across in terms of a striker," said Chiefs manager Bobby Motaung.

"He is a targetman who is very strong, very intelligent and very difficult to mark.

"He is not the type of player who comes into a game for a few minutes or 10 minutes. He is someone you have to keep an eye on for 90 minutes.

"I know he will do a good job for Bolton if they sign him because he will have no trouble coping with the demands of the Premiership - he will deliver.

"I would have loved to have kept him for another year or two, but we appreciate this is an opportunity for the young man, one he must take with both hands."