YORKSHIRE are leading the race to sign England swing bowler Ryan Sidebottom.

White Rose captain Andrew Gale has spoken glowingly about the Nottinghamshire bowler, who was celebrating County Championship title glory last night.

Sidebottom, the 32-year-old Huddersfield-born player, has admitted: “If I was invited back to Yorkshire, I would probably snap it up.”

Gale said: “We are trying to strengthen our side through the signing of Ryan. We are speaking to him, so hopefully we might know more in the next two weeks.

“We are hopeful of getting him, and there is a good offer on the table.

“All his family live in Huddersfield, and it is down to him now. I know he is still passionate about Yorkshire cricket. I spoke to him about it in the winter.”

Sidebottom has still not ruled out staying at Trent Bridge, despite turning down a two-year contract.

He has always said that the next playing contract he signs will be his last one, although he could potentially fancy a coaching role upon retirement.

Sidebottom added: “I’ve still got a couple of games to go with England, and I feel it’s right not to make that decision yet.”

There are up to eight counties interested in his signature, including Lancashire and Durham.