A CLUTCH of First Division clubs are waiting in the wings to talk to Lee Bullock if Cardiff City decline their option to sign the 23-year-old midfielder.

Bullock scored three goals in four starts for the Bluebirds during a successful loan spell last season and is still expected to join the Welsh club on a permanent basis.

Cardiff boss Lennie Lawrence returned from a break in Dubai today and it is hoped that a deal can be finalised before the weekend when Bullock will be taking a fortnight's holiday.

Newly-relegated Division One outfits Leeds United and Leicester City are the latest clubs to be linked with Bullock while Ipswich, Nottingham Forest, Sheffield United, Sheffield Wednesday and Stockport are also believed to be interested.

And City player-boss Chris Brass has revealed that even more First Division managers would like to add Bullock to their squads.

But Cardiff still have first refusal and the Stockton-born midfielder will only be free to talk to other clubs if the Ninian Park side decide against a permanent transfer.

No time limit has been set on Cardiff's right to a first refusal and Brass said: "There are clubs expressing an interest in Lee and a great deal more than the ones that have been quoted.

"Lee is aware of it and we are keeping him in the picture. If Cardiff turn around and say they want him then we have agreed a price so there would not be a problem.

"Equally, if they turn around and say no he can then talk to other clubs who I'm sure would meet our asking price."

Meanwhile, Tranmere striker Alex Hay has elected to sign for Rushden & Diamonds despite interest from the Minstermen.

Brass has also revealed that Darlington midfielder Gary Pearson could be a summer target but is not the highest name on his list of possible signings with a new centre forward and centre back still the main priorities.

City's boss said: "Gary's somebody we have enquired about but it's not a priority. We have got to get other people tied up first.

"He's played in the Conference and the Third Division and is somebody who would be a good acquisition."

York City Supporters Club will hold their annual general meeting on Wednesday, June 9 at Bootham Crescent.

The evening will begin at 7.30pm and, following the completion of agenda items, members will be able to question club representatives.

Bootham Crescent's Social Club will be open for all of England's Euro 2004 games.

The matches against France, Switzerland and Croatia will all be shown on a big screen and competitions and raffles will also be held.

Supporters Trust committee member Kirsten Gillies and Dave Potter, of the York Minstermen, will open the doors an hour before kick-off and City fans are urged to come and support their country at their football club.

Turn to page 14 to read York City communication director Sophie McGill's review of Birmingham City managing director Karen Brady's new book Playing To Win.

Updated: 10:51 Wednesday, May 26, 2004