EXCLUSIVECREWE skipper Dave Brammer is resisting signing a new deal for the Alex in case Ipswich Town step up their interest in the tough-tackling midfielder.

EXCLUSIVE

CREWE skipper Dave Brammer is resisting signing a new deal for the Alex in case Ipswich Town step up their interest in the tough-tackling midfielder.

Stoke City and Coventry City are also keen on the 29-year-old, who becomes a free agent tomorrow.

Blues boss Joe Royle last night admitted interest in Brammer but had not yet made a firm move for the former Port Vale and Wrexham battler.

He said: "He is one I have thought about and is on our list but we have not made contact as yet."

Brammer, who has recently recovered from a pelvic injury, trained with Dario Gradi's Crewe squad yesterday but was keeping his options open in case one of their Championship rivals made a move.

A source close to Brammer last night said: "Dave has been offered another year at Crewe but he does not want to commit himself just yet.

"He is aware that Ipswich are interested but has not heard anything concrete."

The Crewe captain has made more than 100 starts since signing in August 2001 from Port Vale, where he was also skipper, despite two lengthy injury lay-offs.

The Bromborough-born playmaker started his career at Wrexham before becoming Bran Horton's first signing at Vale for £350,000.

He has long interested Ipswich, who considered making a move for him when they won promotion to the Premiership in 2000.

Royle is looking to strengthen in midfield with Republic of Ireland international Mark Kinsella also in his thoughts.

Jermaine Wright is expected to complete his signing to Leeds United tomorrow, along with Luton Town's Matthew Spring.

Wright turned down a move to Everton on Monday and has spent the past two days in Leeds undergoing a stringent medical. He has agreed personal terms on a three-year, £12,000 a week deal for the Yorkshire club.

Meanwhile, Jim Magilton and Richard Naylor are expected to sign new deals at Portman Road tomorrow and Chris Makin will give Royle his decision today after holding further talks with the Blues boss last night and discussing it with his agent.

derek.davis@eadt.co.uk