KIDDERMINSTER Harriers target Gary Birch has signed a new one-year deal with Walsall which could pave the way for a loan move to Aggborough.

The 21-year-old had originally turned down an extension to his contract and seemed set to leave the Bescot Stadium.

A fee would have been required for Birch under the Bosman ruling, effectively ruling Harriers out of the running.

But further talks have led to him agreeing to stay with the Division One side and boss Colin Lee hinted he had a way of giving the player more regular first-team football.

The 6ft striker, described as quick and good in the air, was linked with Harriers last season and could fit the bill with Ian Britton's side down to two front runners.

Lee told the Walsall official website: "Gary decided to turn down his offer of a contract during the summer.

"However, after further talks he has decided to sign a one-year extension on the original offer.

"I'm delighted Gary has agreed to sign. He never wanted to leave, it was more of a case of him gaining more regular first-team football to enable him to develop as a player.

"We have talked at length and have agreed on various ways to enable this to happen."

Birch, who scored on his debut in the LDV Trophy in 2001, played 20 games for Walsall last season, scoring one goal against Burnley.

In the past, he has scored two at Exeter and three for Nuneaton in the Conference during loan spells.