£170k Kelly could join before deadline - if Knighton sells

Last updated : 20 March 2002 By Al Woodcock
Darren Kelly
Kelly : Could shatter United's transfer record
A deal between Knighton and Courtenay has been in place for nine weeks but a breakthrough has yet to arrive. The two men were due to meet again today with their respective teams of lawyers. Irish businessman Courtenay indicated at the weekend that a couple of documents were the only remaining "snags" holding up the takeover. At the moment the club are barred from signing any players by the Football League because they still have a loan to repay to the PFA.

With the transfer deadline falling next week manager Roddy Collins, a close friend of Courtenay's is desperate for the deal to completed as soon as possible. He has been hunting Kelly for many months and believes a deal could be done if Courtenay is able to move in and clear the remaining part of the PFA loan. Collins has also been running his eye over Barbados international striker Eric Lavine and the Shamrock Rovers forward Tony Grant.

Collins says he will quit if the club isn't sold soon. He claims to have had several other job offers from clubs in England.

Knighton has been the subject of a concerted campaign by fans to remove him from power. Over 2,000 regulars are believed to be boycotting Brunton Park this season because of his continuing presence. Gates have been sliding ever since the sacking of Mervyn Day in September 1997. Last night's game with Hartlepool attracted only 3,147 supporters, over 1,000 down on the corresponding fixture last season.

United give trial to kid Boyd

Cumbrian prospect Mark Boyd is to be given a trial by United after being released by Newcastle United. Boyd, 20, who United failed to sign as a schoolboy, plays in midfield and could become a target for Roddy Collins if he impresses.

His ex-Newcastle teammate Ryan McGuffie, formerly with Annan Athletic is another player who Collins is watching and he will also be coming to Brunton Park on trial.

Picture from News & Star

www.newsandstar.co.uk