TOMMY MOONEY was mulling over a move to the County Ground this morning with Andy King desperately hoping that his number one target would commit himself to Swindon Town.
The 31-year-old former Birmingham City striker met the Town boss for talks yesterday and promised a 'yes' or a 'no' by the time the players headed for training this morning.
King himself has refused to confirm the striker's identity, for fear of alerting other clubs and subsequently missing out, but there is no doubt that Mooney is the man he is chasing.
As well as talks, the experienced forward was given a tour of the ground and also the impressive Wanborough training facility - where he watched the current squad being put through its paces.
Mooney, a powerful striker in the mould that King is desperate for, has two other offers on the table but all the indications are that King has done a good 'selling job'.
With first team chances limited at Birmingham City, Mooney spent a chunk of last season on loan to Stoke City, Sheffield United and Derby County respectively.
He netted three times for Stoke and also found himself on the scoresheet for Sheffield United as the Blades progressed to the FA Cup semi-finals.
However, he did play a significant role in City's promotion to the Premiership two seasons ago, netting 13 goals for the Blues.
While the forward may not have a future at St Andrews, King is clearly excited at the prospect of Mooney lining up with Sam Parkin.
He said: "This is a Premiership player and that's all I'm prepared to say at this stage.
"Second Division managers often only get offered such a player when he's finished. That's certainly not the case with this striker.
"He might not be top of the pecking order at his current club but he has qualities that I feel will be of great benefit to Swindon Town.
"What I am not prepared to do is start saying deals are done when they're not.
"If all goes well then I hope it will give a message to everyone as to the way we are trying to go at this club."
If King can persuade the player to sign, it will take his summer recruitment drive to six - with two loan deals still to come.
As well as Mooney, Derby County defender/midfielder Ian Evatt also spoke to King but he too has options, with Steve McMahon keen to sign the 22-year-old for Blackpool.
However, Mooney's capture would leave King in the position he hoped for at this stage of proceedings a squad, albeit a small one, in place ahead of a challenging pre-season campaign.
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