Championship Eyeing Up Alex Trio

John Brayford, Ashley Westwood and James Bailey have all been linked with summer moves away from the club this summer.

Reports suggest that Derby County are among the front runners as all three catch the eye at Gresty Road.

Derby’s interest in Brayford has already been well documented with boss Nigel Clough, who managed Brayford at Burton, admitting interest last summer. Whilst nothing came of the interest last year, Clough is expected to make a fresh approach for the right back.

Brayford is about to enter the final year of his contract and with the Alex failing to perform on the pitch it seems unlikely an extended stay at Gresty Road will be in his thoughts having been a stand out player at Crewe since arriving from Burton Albion 18 months ago.

Midfield duo Ashley Westwood and James Bailey are also catching the eye of Championship sides. The two academy graduates have put in some great performances in recent weeks, with Ashley Westwood expected to take a clean sweep at next week’s fans season awards.

Manager Dario Gradi has already said that the club would be willing to listen to any offers for his young stars and even admitted that it is likely Westy will be moving on this summer!

‘As soon as you produce a good player he goes – but we have to keep producing them.

‘And if we don’t keep the academy, we run the risk of not producing any players at all.’

So, the vultures are circling and the club are preparing to let go of their stars – just as season tickets for the new season are about to go on sale. Superb.