Shrewsbury’s quest to lure Grant Holt to Oteley Road has moved a step closer after Town officials confirmed they have agreed a fee with Nottingham Forest for the striker.Manager Paul Simpson has firmed up yesterday’s reports by revealing his club have reached a deal with the Coca-Cola Championship outfit for the 27-year-old forward.

The transfer is on course to be completed in the early part of next week, providing Town can agree personal terms with the striker.

“The only thing we can say at the moment is that we have agreed a fee with Nottingham Forest and we are now in the process of trying to agree personal terms with Grant,” said Simpson, who confirmed he is also working on tying up further deals.

The fee is currently undisclosed but all the signs are that, should the deal for Holt be completed, it will represent one of the biggest transfers in Town’s history.

Meanwhile, two of Town’s youth team players have received international call-ups for Wales.

Right-sided midfielder Steve Davey will be part of the under-19 squad heading to Ireland for the Milk Cup, while striker Gavin Partridge has been selected for the under-17 team in the same competition.

Davey, who has been a Welsh under-17 regular, is about to begin the second year of his scholarship programme at Walford College, while Partridge is due to start the Town scheme in a little under two weeks time.

“It’s great news for both the lads and great news for the club,” said Head of Youth Nigel Vaughan.

“Bryan Flynn (Wales under-21 manager and youth coach) has watched them both and likes what he sees.”

Meanwhile Vaughan has confirmed Rachel Greenley will replace Nathan Ring as youth team physio. Ring has been promoted by Simpson to cover first team duties.