BURY are involved in a tug-of-war over Chester City's Simon Yeo after fresh life was breathed into the deal this week.

The Shakers are haggling over a price for the experienced striker, who hit a hat-trick for his side in a friendly victory over AFC Telford on Tuesday night.

Chester claim to have rejected the first approach, but director of football, Keith Alexander, who previously worked with the goal poacher at both Lincoln City and Peterborough United, is working hard to keep the deal alive.

Funds have been made available to make a cash offer for the 33-year-old, although Alexander has said he will not be held to ransom over the fee.

"I have asked the board what money is there for us - and if Simon is available for a nominal fee, then we may be able to strike a deal," Alexander told The Bury Times.

"I don't want to pay a fee for him because, as I understand it, the Chester manager (Bobby Williamson) has previously said that Simon is not in his plans.

"But I have worked with Simon before, and I know what he can do, so if he is available at the right price, we will be interested."

Yeo's stock may well have risen with Williamson after his midweek exploits, but Chester have also been linked with a move for Wrexham's Lee McEvilly - a deal which could make his passage to Gigg Lane somewhat smoother.

In other Shakers striker news, Andy Bishop has targeted the pre-season game against Barnsley on August 4 to make his comeback from injury.

The new club captain, who hit 20 goals last season, has been out of action since May with a knee problem.

He returned to full training this week, but his recovery has been hampered after a number of related problems flared up.

After losing out on former Boston and Rushden hitman Drewe Broughton, who now looks set to sign for MK Dons, Bury have clinched the signature of long-time Chris Casper target Andy Mangan.

The Liverpudlian striker, who played in the Bolton Wanderers youth team with David Buchanan and Nicky Adams, turned down a new deal with Accrington Stanley to try his luck elsewhere.