SAM PARKIN is mulling over an offer to extend his County Ground contract and a deal to secure Andy King's services for the foreseeable future could be in place by the end of next week.

As Town prepare for today's clash with Barnsley at Oakwell, chief executive Mark Devlin has confirmed that an undisclosed offer is in the hands of Parkin's representatives.

Devlin said: "Sam's advisers should now have a copy of the proposal and we will wait to hear from them.

"Obviously the details have to remain confidential, but it recognises the contribution Sam has made here and we are very keen for him to stay."

The 22-year-old's current deal expires in the summer.

If the board are keen to retain Parkin, the same applies to the manager.

Devlin said: "Andy is currently in possession of a proposed deal and he obviously wants to make sure it is agreeable to him.

"I feel the balance between the needs of the club and the needs of the manager is right and I would hope we can complete something by the end of next week."

However, the immediate priority for both King and Parkin is the match with Barnsley today.

The Tykes currently trail Town on goal difference and the victors this afternoon could find themselves top of the table at a quarter to five.

King said: "Their manager Gudjon Thordarson knows what it takes to succeed at this level.

"He did a good job with Stoke City and I would expect his Barnsley team to be strong, organised and physical.

"They have a good home record this year and it will be another big test for us."

Town trained at Leeds United's Thorp Arch complex yesterday afternoon and Whites' boss Peter Reid was an interested spectator.

He and King exchanged some friendly banter as Town's players were put through their paces.

Should Town win at Elland Road on Wednesday, it could be seen as a case of Christmas coming early, but then that will be the case at the County Ground next month anyway.

As part of a pre 'festive' promotion, the club have announced reduced admission prices for the visit of Stockport County on October 11.

Devlin said: "Obviously we would like to build attendances at The County Ground, in a manner which is affordable to the club and that would not damage cash flow.

"The commercial department have already launched a Christmas Comes Early promotion and we felt this match represented an excellent opportunity to theme a matchday, and try to encourage more fans to follow the team, by reducing prices in both the Nationwide and Arkell's Stands.

"Given the exciting football we have played so far this season, the new attendees will be in for a treat and hopefully, become regulars at The County Ground."

Adults buying their tickets in advance for the Stockport match will pay £16. It's £10 for concessions and £6 for under 16s.

Full details of the prices for the Stockport promotion can be obtained on 0870 443 1894.