YORK City manager Chris Brass would still like to bring another striker to Bootham Crescent before next Thursday's transfer deadline.

Brass has recently bolstered his attack with the non-contract signing of Andy Bell and the loan swoop for Newcastle youngster Richard Offiong but is still looking to increase his forward options.

Liam George remains sidelined with shin splints and Aron Wilford, who is believed to be training with Scarborough, is currently agreeing a financial settlement to have his contract annulled by mutual consent.

Brass' attacking alternatives have also been lessened recently by Jon Parkin's departure for Macclesfield and Lee Bullock's loan switch to Cardiff.

The City player-boss said: "I'm still looking to bring in a new striker before next week's deadline.

"We are dotting the 'i's and crossing the 't's with Aron Wilford. He's been on loan at Harrogate but I don't know if he will be going there because I've been told a number of other clubs are interested.

"We have had to move people on in order to bring other people in."

Brass also believes that Bullock's goalscoring debut for Cardiff on Tuesday night also increases the strong likelihood that he will be joining the Bluebirds on a permanent basis when his loan period expires at the end of the season.

Bullock scored after coming on as a half-time substitute in the 3-2 First Division home defeat against Reading and Brass said: "I heard Lee did extremely well. I know he will score goals and I'm pleased he's impressed on his debut.

"He's certainly got a fighting chance of the deal being made permanent. What his performance could mean though is that other clubs become interested.

"I've always said I would not stand in his way and the same applies if any other clubs come in for anybody before the deadline but I know which players I want to keep for next season."

Cardiff are believed to have first refusal on Bullock's services and a transfer fee of around £75,000 plus another £75,000 after appearances has already been agreed with City.

Updated: 11:04 Thursday, March 18, 2004