CREWE Alex are locked in talks with Bristol City following a bid by the Robins to lure away star striker Nicky Maynard.

Although the Alex stress a deal has not yet been finalised for the sale of last season's top scorer, it is believed the Coca-Cola Championship side will be allowed to discuss personal terms with the 21-year-old once a package over the £2m mark is thrashed out.

City, who lost to Hull in last season's play-off final, have turned again to Maynard to boost their promotion hopes next season after £1.5m deals for Coventry's Michael Mifsud and Egyptian striker Emad Moteab fell through.

Gary Johnson's side inquired about Maynard two months ago, but it was Ipswich boss Jim Magilton who firmed up his interest when he quoted a £1.75m fee.

“We know who we want to bring in. We're very close and the chairman is backing me all the way at the moment,” said Johnson.

Crewe spokesman Rob Wilson confirmed a bid had been lodged, but stressed: “No fee has been agreed yet and we are still talking to the club.

“Once that is sorted out then they will be given permission to speak to Nicky.”

While he has always insisted he has planned for the forthcoming League One campaign with Maynard, coach Steve Holland has accepted he could lose his striking asset if the right deal emerged for club and player.

Last week he took delivery of former Stockport frontman Anthony Elding for a six-figure sum, which would soften the blow of losing the talented youngster.

Since making his debut in April 2006, Academy graduate Maynard, has netted 35 times in just 67 appearances.

Meanwhile, Crewe have released centre-half trialist Stefan Zubar, but are still exploring the merits of several other potential defensive trialists. Zubar played in a private practice game at Manchester City last week, but failed to match up to requirements and has returned to his native France.

“We have had some discussions with one or two different players who could come in, and we're still actively pursuing another defender as we need more than six,” revealed the coach.

“I'm still concerned with certain aspects of our defence in the event of injuries. Our best back four is decent, but I'm not sure we have got enough depth to handle the season ahead.

“Ideally, I would like to add another central midfielder and a defender, but there needs to be a bit of juggling done to create those opportunities.”