RELEGATED Notts County have confirmed their interest in Darlington striker Barry Conlon.

County boss Gary Mills has identified Conlon as the man to lead his side back into the Second Division at the first attempt next season.

The 25-year-old is out of contract at the end of the month with County one of eight clubs leading the chase for Darlington's leading scorer.

And, while Conlon would like to remain with Quakers, Hodgson has already admitted the club's poor financial situation is likely to see the Irishman move on after three years in the North-East.

County are reported to have offered Conlon improved terms on his current deal and Mills admitted: "Barry Conlon does interest us, and he is a player I have looked at.

"He is a good striker, but we have competition from a number of other teams, but he is certainly someone I want to bring to Notts County."

Tranmere, Macclesfield and Swansea have all been linked with moves for Conlon, one of 11 players whose contract is up for renewal during the summer.

Ashley Nicholls is out of contract and looks set to join Cambridge on a permanent basis after a successful loan spell.

The Quakers squad return from a short break in Magaluf on Thursday, when Hodgson will set about the task of planning for next season.

Matt Clarke, Michael Price, Ryan Valentine, Mark Convery, Clark Keltie, Brian Close, Neil Wainwright, Craig Russell and Ian Clark are all out of contract.

Meanwhile, the club have confirmed that relegated Leeds United will visit the Neasham Road Stadium on July 27 for a pre-season friendly. Kick-off 7.30pm.

Hodgson is also hoping to arrange further games against North-East neighbours Newcastle, Middlesbrough and Sunderland.

In addition, the charity match, cancelled in April after poor ticket sales, could be re-arranged for some time in July.

Read more about the Quakers here.