PAUL EDWARDS has denied reports that he is preparing to sign for Blackpool with Andy King also adamant that he has had no contact with Seasiders' boss Steve McMahon.

The 22-year-old winger is looking to move to a club nearer his family in Manchester and Blackpool would certainly be an option however unpopular it would be with Town fans.

Edwards is adamant no approach has been made, although rumours of Blackpool's interest have not come as a complete surprise.

He said: "Nobody from Blackpool has contacted me, although I have heard they might be one club interested. But whoever comes in for me, I am confident I can do a good job."

Seaside speculation is all news to King, but the Town boss accepts that if Blackpool make a move, they do not have to seek his blessing.

King said: "I've had no contact from Steve McMahon about the boy. What I will say is that wherever Edwards chooses to go, I'll be seeking some form of financial deal, whether it's based on future appearances or a sell-on clause. That would be decided at a tribunal."

If the Blackpool boss does decide to swoop for Edwards, it will be the second time in recent months that he has come knocking on Town's door. A derisory £150,000 bid for Danny Invincible was swiftly rejected last season.

Edwards is one of six professionals on their way out of the County Ground. But gone does not mean forgotten in King's eyes. The Town boss said: "Clearly I have to focus on looking forward and targeting those players I want to add to my squad. But I am not someone who turns their back on a player.

"I have spent a considerable amount of time making phone calls on behalf of those I will not be retaining next season.

"I have contacted a couple of clubs about Giuliano Grazioli, two clubs about Bobby Howe, one about Paul McAreavey and I have also been trying to set something up for young Paul Reed, one of the kids I decided to let go.

"Nothing would give me greater pleasure than to see them all fixed up over the summer and then go on to do well for their new clubs."