King’s Lynn manager Keith Webb has refused to rule out a swoop for Rushden & Diamonds` hitman Daryl Clare.

Lynn held talks with the prolific 30-year-old striker in the summer before he sealed a big-money move to the Blue Square Premier outfit.

The former Boston United and Chester marksman (pictured) is now poised to leave Nene Park to return closer to his Lincolnshire base after a recent family illness.

Blue Square Premier duo Mansfield Town and York City are both reportedly ready to offer the striker a northern escape route. Webb, however, admitted he would be interested in landing the much-coveted front-man who was an interested spectator at The Walks for Lynn's New Year's Day draw with Gainsborough Trinity.

Webb said: “There's nothing to report at the moment. Obviously should he become available then of course he would be the sort of player that any club would be interested in.

“He's a proven goal-scorer in non-League football and it is a situation I am of aware of at Rushden. I'm always looking to strengthen - there's no secret on that front, but the boys in the last couple of matches are making it hard for me to do that.”

Diamonds' chief Garry Hill confirmed over the festive period he was prepared to sanction Clare's exit. Hill has not included the striker in recent weeks after scoring five goals in thirteen early season appearances.

“I believe he will look to play football in the New Year closer to home,” said Hill. “They are too far away from us at the moment. He's committed to his family and I totally accept that. He has informed me that he is available now to come in for training and playing matches but as a manager I've got to support his family circumstances.

“They will always come first. His wife has not been well and, following the birth of their daughter, Daryl feels that he needs to be nearer them.”

Webb remains confident of extending Kettering Town loanee Luke Graham's stay. The versatile defender salvaged a late draw against AFC Telford United last Saturday in the final appearance of his current short-term spell.

“It's not done and dusted at the minute. I think it should be done in the next couple of days. There are a couple of issues that need to be ironed out but the lad has enjoyed his football and I'm sure he wants to come back,” said Webb.

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