Boss Graham Turner is keen to bring defender Joe Skarz back to Shrewsbury Town – but is not convinced a deal can be agreed.

Left back Skarz spent the second half of last season on loan from Huddersfield and was one of Town’s most consistent performers during a disappointing end to the League Two campaign.

Skarz has now been made available for transfer by Huddersfield and Turner has revealed he is interested in bringing the 20-year-old back to Shropshire.

“We are talking to Joe’s agent and to some extent with Huddersfield,” said Turner.

But when asked about his hopes of reaching an agreement, the Greenhous Meadow chief replied: “Slightly pessimistic.”

Turner has admitted bolstering Town’s attacking options remains one of his top priorities in the wake of Dave Hibbert’s departure and long-term injuries to Kris Bright and Nathan Elder.

But he is keen to strengthen all over the pitch, with Kelvin Langmead’s move to Peterborough due to be concluded in the next 24 hours and the sudden departure of midfield Terry Dunfield.

“If Joe Skarz doesn’t materialise, the left-back position needs to be taken care of,” he added.

Strengthening

“If Kelvin goes, there are more defending positions that need to be strengthened.

“Midfield, with Terry Dunfield leaving, that needs strengthening. I’ve said I want more pace in the team and then there is the striking position.

“We are very short, particularly with Nathan Elder being out for nine months and Kris Bright just having surgery and it being eight weeks before he is available for a first-team start.”

By JAMES GARRISON