Bastia and Strasbourg have emerged as favourites for the loan signature of Ulrich Le Pen according to reports in France.

The Frenchman, who picked up a slight ankle knock in the reserves last week, is keen to return home after a disappointing and injury-hit spell with the Blues.

According to the French reports Town want to get a fee for the former Lorient man but now seem to accept that a loan looks more likely.

There are even suggestions that the Blues would be prepared to pay some of his wages if he moved on to either of the French clubs.

Strasbourg have shown an interest all summer and at one point Le Pen was even in discussions with them. However, the deal seemed dead due to Town's preference for a permanent transfer rather than a loan. Bastia is a new name in the frame.

With the transfer window closing next weekend the days ahead could see a fair few moves. Marcus Bent has been linked with Fulham and others, Marcus Stewart with a number of clubs while Hermann Hreidarsson and Holland could attract more attention.

Amir Karic's loan to Hibs may be confirmed while the Blues would also be keen for the likes of Richard Naylor and Richard Logan to go on loan perhaps along with some of the promising U19s.

Steve Burton is currently on a three-month spell at Boston.

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