Coventry City FC manager Mickey Adams hinted that the "Sky Blues" could swoop for Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper Clayton Ince in an effort to strengthen his squad for their 2005/06 England League Championship season.
Ince, who is out of contract and yet to agree terms with former employers Crewe Alexandra, can join the financially-strapped club on a free transfer, which would see the 32-year-old custodian link up with compatriot Stern John.
Adams told the Coventry Telegraph that he made enquiries about Ince and out-of-contract Liverpool winger Richie Partridge.
"Clayton Ince is a player who we have looked at because he played particularly well against us three times last season," said Adams. "I still need more bodies in and the only thing that will determine that will be the finances. I have got a few irons in the fire and hopefully I will be able to add a few more players soon."
Ince confirmed there was an enquiry from Adams and said he was flattered by the interest. He said that, although he would be sad to leave Crewe, he considered Coventry to be the type of club that could lure him away.
"I have been with Crewe for six years," said Ince, "and they have been good for me and I have been good for them. But you also have to always look out for new openings and opportunities in life."
Ince did not always have the support of Crewe manager Dario Gradi last term but performed creditably when he was called upon and was named the man of the match in their closing fixture when they edged Coventry 2-1 to dodge relegation.
He was man of the match as well at Coventry last November when Crewe won 1-0.
In an unusual move for partisan British football crowds, Ince was clapped off the pitch by Coventry fans after a string of remarkable saves.
Ince also revealed he would relish the chance to work more closely with John.
"We always talk and hang out when our teams clash," said Ince. "He is a very good player and I am sure we can both teach other things and help each other. He can show me things from a striker's viewpoint and I can show him things that a goalkeeper might see."
Ince has until tomorrow to reveal his intentions to Crewe, which means that Coventry or any other interested club has less than 48 hours to make a move.