Chimbonda won one international cap for France in 2006

Blackburn Rovers have told full-back Pascal Chimbonda he can leave the club in the January transfer window.

Rovers have decided not to renew the 31-year-old's contract when in expires at the end of the season and are happy to let the Frenchman leave now.

Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce said: "We feel for both concerned it is better to let him see what he can get in January."

Chimbonda arrived at Ewood Park from Tottenham Hotspur in summer 2009.

The player was at fault for one of the five goals Dimitar Berbatov scored for Manchester United in their 7-1 rout of Rovers at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Chimbonda has also played for Wigan, Sunderland and had two spells with Tottenham.

Blackburn were recently taken over by Indian firm Venky's and Allardyce, whose side are 13th in the Premier League, is hoping he will have money to strengthen the squad in January.

He has already confirmed his interest in bringing striker Roque Santa Cruz back to the club from Manchester City.

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"All I said was if Roque was available we would be interested," said Allardyce.

"There has been no progress on it. In the next seven to 10 days I will speak to the chairman about the way we go forward in January."

Blackburn have been linked with Espanyol forward Dani Osvaldo but Allardyce refused to be drawn on the rumours.

"We send scouts out every week - it is no different," he said. "It is just that the January window is nearly open and speculation starts."

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