Mansfield Town

Frontmen Marlon Harewood and Marlon King are just two high-profile players to have been linked with us, since the transfer window opened last week.

However, Murray, who racked up his 500th career appearance in last Saturday’s victory at Exeter City, insists that any players who we do sign must fit in with our squad.

He said: “There are a lot of names being banded around at the minute. It’s January and you expect that.

“We’re talking to quite a few players and the gaffer is in dialogue with some high-profile players. We’re looking to add a little bit more quality to this squad.

“But the most important thing is that we’ve got [our players] back to being a tight-knit group with that strong team-spirit we’ve had over the last couple of years.

“So we need to make sure that the person, or persons, coming in, fit into the mould of what we’re about so it doesn’t disrupt the group too much.”

He added: “There have been talks between [the club and Marlon Harewood] and discussions are ongoing, but there are a lot of clubs interested in Marlon.”

On the potential arrival of Marlon King, Murray continued: “Again, there are a lot of talks going on at the minute.

“In the next few weeks, not just for us but for a number of teams, I think there will be a lot of dialogue occurring, but it isn’t just as easy as saying we want player x, y and z and getting them.

“[Football] doesn’t work like that. There are a lot of things that need to be discussed and sorted and I imagine that’s what will be happening over the next couple of weeks.”

Our assistant boss has also revealed that a player who would interest us is former Manchester United trainee Sean McGinty.

He added: “He’s a good young player and we’re aware of him. He’s a name that we have looked at, but he’s on a long list and there are many others names on that list.

“We’re making sure that if anyone does come into the group, they are going to bring something – not just on the pitch, but for the dynamics of the group too.”

In other transfer news, it is also hoped that a deal can be agreed with Sheffield United, which would see Darryl Westlake return to One Call Stadium.

The 23-year-old’s loan with us expired last weekend.

Murray added: “The gaffer has been in talks with Sheffield United during his loan period. He’s been excellent for us and I think it’s a case of getting the paperwork done.

“Hopefully, he’ll be with us for the rest of the season.”

Meanwhile, Murray also praised the contribution of frontman Calvin Andrew, whose short-term contract with the club expired yesterday.

“Calvin has moved on,” said Murray. “His contract was up and the gaffer has decided not to renew that.

“He scored a really important goal against our neighbours, but we’re looking at freshening things up and bringing something else to the group now. We thank him for his input.”

In order news, it was revealed at a Q & A session last night by chairman John Radford that defender Ryan Tafazolli had recently signed a new 18 month contract.