Mick McCarthy has been given the green light to swoop for St Mirren left-sided player Kenny McLean and is believed to be in a two-way battle with Charlton for Notts County’s Alan Judge.

McLean, 21, who can also play in the centre of a four-man midfield, has a year remaining on his deal at Love Street but we understand the former Arbroath man could be prized away for as little as £400,000, having been left out of the team by manager Danny Lennon in recent weeks.

The youngster, who was only on the bench for the Buddies’ Scottish League Cup final victory against Hearts, was on McCarthy’s radar at Wolves and speculation, which it is suggested has brought about a drop in his form, has intensified with the two clubs mulling over a potential pre-season game in July.

Judge, meanwhile, has held talks with Charlton and is thought to have a straight decision to make between The Valley or Portman Road.

The 24-year-old, labelled the “Irish Messi” has eight league goals for the Magpies this season and a further 11 assists. He signed from Blackburn Rovers in 2011 and was the subject of a £500,000 bid from the Blues last summer.

McCarthy’s plans to reshape his left-hand side could put out-of-contract Lee Martin’s future in doubt, especially with Anthony Wordsworth capable of filling the void and free agent Jay Tabb expected to sign when his deal with Reading expires on July 1.

However, we understand that Martin – who polarises opinions between fans – could be offered a new deal on reduced terms by McCarthy, adding competition in wide areas.

Should Martin become McCarthy’s first signing of the summer, Town would then have a squad of 21 players, including just one contracted goalkeeper in the form of Scott Loach and the five second-year scholars who recently penned their first professional deals.