SAM Allardyce still has cash in the kitty, despite spending a record £8 million on Nicolas Anelka.

In declaring the club's interest in Fulham's £2.5m-rated unsettled midfielder, Steed Malbranque, Wanderers chairman Phil Gartside made it clear that he is prepared to sanction at least one more big deal before next Thursday's transfer deadline.

They will have to move quickly and decisively, though, if they are to beat West Ham for Malbranque's signature.

The Frenchman, who has fallen out with Fulham manager, Chris Coleman, after refusing to sign a contract extension, is understood to be keen to stay in London.

But the capture of fellow Frenchman, Anelka, could convince him that Wanderers are committed to keeping pace with the leading lights of the Premiership.

Malbranque needs only to say the word and Allardyce, who wants at least two more signings before the transfer window closes, will snap into action.

So far, the Whites boss has only made tentative enquiries, speaking to Coleman regarding Malbranque after Wanderers drew 1-1 at Fulham on Wednesday.

Gartside confirmed: "I know Sam's asked about him. He talked to Chris Coleman the other night.

"We always talk about people coming in and out, and I wouldn't rule anything out to be honest.

"We've been careful how we've spent money, but that doesn't mean we're not going to spend more."