FORMER Bury manager Alan Knill has confirmed his interest in signing Shakers targets Mike Grella and Nathan Clarke.

American striker Grella, aged 25, and Clarke, 28, the former Huddersfield centre-back, ended the season on loan at Gigg Lane and were offered permanent deals by manager Richie Barker.

However, the club was unable to meet their wage demands and both players have spent the summer searching for better offers.

Barker continues to hold out hope that at least Grella may have a change of heart before the start of pre-season, but Knill’s interest could scupper that.

“I’ve spoken to Mike Grella,” said the Iron manager.

“I think it will come down to finances though because he’s got quite a few clubs interested in him.

“Nathan is one of a number of centre-halves who is on our list. If he wasn’t then there would be something wrong. He’s a really good player who I’ve known for a long time. We face stiff competition for him though.”