GARY Whild is hoping a deal can be done to keep Jamie Grimes at Kidderminster Harriers.

The Nottingham-based player has impressed during pre-season as defensive cover for the first choice centre back pairing of Chey Dunkley and Josh Gowling.

He started in Saturday’s 2-0 win at Stourport Swifts and came on as a substitute in Friday’s draw at Port Vale and Tuesday’s win at AFC Telford.

If Grimes signs on the dotted line it will mean a remarkable return to professional football for the former Swansea starlet, who also had spells at Redditch United and Brackley.

The 22-year-old had joined Harriers on a non-contract basis near the end of last season but did not break into the squad.

“We’re close to do something with Jamie Grimes,” said assistant boss Whild.

“We know we need cover for Chey Dunkley and Josh Gowling and I thought Jamie was exceptional when he came on against Telford.

“Hopefully, if things are right we can sort something out with him.”

Harriers are also casting their eye over striker Joe Lolley, who helped the British Universities and Colleges team win a silver medal at the World Summer Games in Russia last week.

The 20-year-old has scored 83 goals in 88 games for Midland Combination side Littleton and is studying at the University of Central Lancashire.

He came on as a second-half substitute at Stourport and helped set-up Ryan Rowe’s goal.

Harriers boss Steve Burr and his coaching staff have had a look at a handful of hopefuls during pre-season, including Australians Dylan Fox and Dan Bennett as well as Colombian Jonathan Lama.

However, with the Conference Premier starting Saturday, August 10 at home to Gateshead, Harriers have reduced the number of hopefuls.

Whild added: “We set a really high standard last year and the one thing the gaffer and I will do is ask for more.

“It’s early days yet but we want to keep improving and pushing on.

“At the moment we’re happy with the quality, we’re happy with the fitness levels, we’re happy with the fact we haven’t picked up any injuries, let’s hope that continues.”

Harriers continue their preparations for the season when they take on Chasetown away on Saturday (3pm ko).

Then they welcome former boss Mark Yates back to Aggborough on Tuesday when they tackle League Two promotion hopefuls Cheltenham Town (7.45pm).