CHIEF executive Colin Gordon remains hopeful midfield livewire Ben Whitfield will remain at Harriers.

The 19-year-old has been a revelation since joining the Aggborough outfit on-loan in October from AFC Bournemouth.

While his deal at the club has expired, Harriers are in talks to secure his services again.

It is understand that Football League clubs have shown an interest in the former Guiseley man but that the attraction of playing regularly may well persuade him to return to Kidderminster.

Whitfield's return would be a positive end to a busy week for the club, which saw lots ins and outs on Hoo Road.

Gordon said: "We're hopeful of keeping Ben, he's done well and the talks have been positive."

Harriers' pursuit of French starlets Ousmane Fane and Arthur Gnahoua came to fruition as they signed deals this week. The pair had been training with the club for several months but Harriers had been waiting for international clearance.

Mane, who had been playing for Norweigan side Lynn Oslo, is an athletic central midfielder, while former Macclesfield man Gnahoua is a wideman who had been in Spain.

"We've had Ousmane and Arthur training with us since the Birmingham City game so it's great to finally get international clearance for them," said Gordon.

"Arthur has some experience in the league with Macclesfield who is a very quick and strong wide player.

"Ousmane's like Patrick Viera, he's got great athleticism and energy. I expect both of them to make an impact."

The duo's arrival also saw right-back Matt Young and Dino Fazlic leave after their deals expired.

Gordon added: "Matt is a great guy and a thorough professional but he's been a bit unlucky because we have Jared Hodgkiss and Jordan Jones who can play at right back and we don't need three players in that position.

"Dino is a good ball player but he's also fallen down the pecking order in midfield and Ousmane will add more energy."

Meanwhile, West Bromwich Albon central defender Kyle Howkins looks set to return.

Howkins returned to parent club on Monday after his loan deal came to an end as a precaution following a head injury against Forest Green Rovers.

Central defender Tyrone Williams is back at Harriers from a successful spell at Vanarama North side Hednesford, where he made 25 appearances.

"Kyle got a knock to the head when he played against Forest Green. He's a tough lad and kept playing but he felt rough afterwards," commented Harriers' chief executive.

"West Bromwich have very strict concussion protocols so he's gone back to them so make sure he's okay.

"But we're hoping to sign him again.

"We've brought back Tyrone, who has played 25 games for Hednesford and done very well."