David Cuffley Norwich City boss Bryan Gunn has admitted Motherwell midfielder Stephen Hughes is among his transfer targets. But reports in Scotland say the out-of-contract Hughes is stalling on the offer of a three-year deal from the Canaries.

David Cuffley

Norwich City boss Bryan Gunn has admitted Motherwell midfielder Stephen Hughes is among his transfer targets.

But reports in Scotland say the out-of-contract Hughes is stalling on the offer of a three-year deal from the Canaries.

The 26-year-old is understood to have had talks with Gunn, but declined to sign.

His agent, Tom Callaghan, told the Daily Record: “Stephen just wants a little more time to think it over.

“I wouldn't say it is totally dead in the water but we know there could be interest from Championship clubs. Obviously there will be movement at other sides with players leaving.

“That could open the door but Stephen won't be rushed.”

Gunn said: “Stephen's a player we have inquired about. He's out of contract, he's a quality player.

“But I'm not surprised he's got a number of clubs after his signature.”

Hearts are also reported to be interested in the former Rangers, Leicester and Scotland Under-21 player, while former Motherwell boss Mark McGhee is keen to take him to Aberdeen.

Gunn did not rule out bringing in another new face before City head for Scotland for three matches next week.

“We're working hard behind the scenes every day and we're waiting for a few answers to come back,” he said.

But his hopes of bringing in a striker appear to have suffered a double setback.

Barnsley, who escaped relegation at City's expense on the final day of last season, are trying to pip them to the signature of Crystal Palace striker Alan Lee.

The 30-year-old is keen on a permanent move to Carrow Road after playing seven games on loan at the end of last season, but Eagles boss Neil Warnock does not expect the move to materialise.

“We're a long way short of doing a deal - I can't see a move to Norwich coming off,” said Warnock.

“Firstly the fee is nowhere near what we value him at, and their wage offer is nowhere near what Alan is getting.

“Alan wants to go there but he and his agent are not daft - if Norwich can't come up with the goods they will have to look at other options. We have had an offer from Barnsley.”

Warnock confirmed that Lee would be in the Palace squad for their pre-season tour of America, starting today, saying: “We want to keep him fit.”

Gunn has also had two offers rejected by Derby for former Stockport striker Liam Dickinson, who now appears to be heading for Brighton.

Dickinson's agent, Phil Sproson, said Brighton were in talks with Derby and a deal could be done in the near future.

“There is a strong interest from Brighton in Liam and talks are ongoing,” he said. “The two clubs are trying to agree a fee and I don't think they are too far apart.”