Notts County are optimistic of securing a deal to sign experienced goalkeeper Russell Hoult after he was shown the door by Stoke.The 35-year-old kept seven clean sheets in 14 games after joining County on loan at the end of February to replace the injured Kevin Pilkington.

Assistant manager Dave Kevan told the Evening Post: "We have held ongoing talks with Russell. He has been around the club since we finished. He has enjoyed his time here and he is also a very good goalkeeper."

Meanwhile, fit-again Pilkington will sign a new two-year deal next week.

Kevan added: "We will be delighted to get Pilks sorted. That is important to us. But if there is a chance of getting Russell Hoult then I feel that would be a really good boost for the club.

"It's a tough league and to have two capable goalies like those two would really be one box ticked that's for sure."

More Football News from TEAMtalk