Joe Royle says it is now highly unlikely that David Unsworth will be joining the club. The former loanee was Royle's main defensive target but Portsmouth have been unwilling to settle the 31-year-old's contract or subsidise a season-long loan.

Royle says he is now considering other options including trialists Rui Marques and Edwin Ouon: "It is looking increasingly unlikely that I can get the player I want, David Unsworth, so I have been looking elsewhere.

"There are still a couple of possibilities in this country but the opportunity to take a close look at these two lads is too good to miss."

Royle is keen to add two defenders to the squad and hopes to make at least one signing before the beginning of the season on August 6th.

Meanwhile, reported Town target Danny Granville has signed a new two-year deal at Crystal Palace and former Blue Chris Makin is on trial at Stoke City.

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