RYAN Clarke will become the second player to join Worcester City from Alfreton Town if the two clubs can agree compensation.

City swooped to sign midfielder Emeka Nwadike last week and are favourites to land Clarke after the defender decided to leave the Derbyshire club.

Andy Preece has been tracking the 23-year-old former Boston United player for the best part of 12 months but Clarke, out of contract at the Impact Arena, would not be able to leave for free because he is under 24.

The City boss said: "He's someone we would still be interested in - that's not changed from last season.

"We would be looking to bring in one more player, perhaps a maximum of two. There are still things ongoing."

But Alfreton manager Nicky Law said: "Ryan is adamant he wants to leave. We wanted him to stay on but if someone really wants to go there's nothing you can do about it.

"If someone wants to leave that badly, then of course we'll respect his decision and let him go - but we have to do what's right for the club first.

"We know of Worcester's interest but there is compensation involved and they know what that figure is. They (Worcester) know what they have to do now if they want him."

Clarke can operate at right wing-back or in the centre of defence and a move to St George's Lane could pave the way for Graham Ward to take up a more familiar midfield role.

However, one position that will not be filled by the time City's players report back for pre-season training on Friday, July 6, is the one vacated by goalkeeper James Coates.

Danny McDonnell's deputy last season, Coates has signed for Unibond Division One South side Kidsgrove Athletic following a loan spell towards the end of the last campaign.

Preece added: "We may have a look at a couple of 'keepers in pre-season but there is nothing definite at this moment in time."

The boss also believes new signing Nwadike has the right attitude to fit in at City and help take the club forward.

He said: "It's key to have players who are still ambitious and think they are good enough to play in the Conference or Football League.

"Our squad is full of those type of players now, mostly aged between 18 or 19 and 28, who are coming towards their peak.

"We have experience with the likes of Nick Colley, who is probably the fittest player at the club, and Danny McDonnell to help the others along."

The fixtures for the 2007/08 Blue Square Premier, North and South campaigns are expected to be released at 10am on Tuesday.

Preece has been awarded a League Managers Association Certificate in applied management. The year-long course is run by Warwick Business School.