David Artell has revealed that contact talks continue to be on-going with Charlie Kirk, Callum Ainley (pictured) and James Jones. The Crewe Alexandra boss remains upbeat that the club can convince them to remain with us, but he admits that nothing is finalised until the ink is dry on the contract.

The Crewe boss recently announced that talks have been positive with the players involved and their representatives.

Artell also believes he remains in a strong position to sign free agent Paul Green this summer. Green has been a consistent performer since signing on loan from Oldham Athletic in January.

David told the club’s official website: “There are no real major updates to really tell you. All I can say is that we are still talking. We are still talking to the players and their agents.

“I remain optimistic but it is never done until the ink is dry. I would like to think we are closer on one or two things but at the moment, those talks are still on going.”