Lee deal close according to dubious report

Last updated : 03 July 2009 By Rick Lamb
Crystal Palace striker Alan Lee could be close to re-joining Norwich following his loan spell, according to the Mirror.

However, the report suggests goalkeeper Stuart Nelson, who has not had his contract renewed by the Canaries, would move in the opposite direction. Quite how a player the club doesn't own could be a bargaining chip is not explained.

Lee, 30, was keen to remain at Carrow Road despite the club's relegation. He earned the respect of the supporters with some wholehearted and talented displays which proved his commitment and won over those sceptical of his Ipswich connections.

Eagles boss Neil Warnock is keen to recoup some of the £600,000 he paid for Lee a year ago, but quite how far Bryan Gunn can or will go for the player is unknown. He has had two bids for Derby striker Liam Dickinson rejected as the Rams look to offset some of the £750,000 they paid Stockport for his services.

Gunn has stated that he expects another new face by the start of next week. He has said that a striker and a goalkeeper, with only youngster Declan Rudd on the books, are his priorities.