BURNLEY are hot on the trail of a Smirnoff Irish League star.

And Clarets boss Adrian Heath hopes to make a capture before the weekend. The 21-year-old, described as an attacking midfielder, has spent a short trial period at Turf Moor and impressed the management team.

"We're actively talking to a club in Northern Ireland about a player with a view to signing him," revealed Heath.

"We hope to tie up a deal in the near future. We are just trying to sort a fee out.

"He has impressed us during his trial and Clive Middlemass, our chief scout, watched him recently in league action in Ireland."

The target was recommended to Heath by former Turf Moor hero Billy Hamilton, who scouts for the Clarets in the province.

"Billy really rates the boy and reckons he is a super prospect. We've done our homework on the player and we hope to bring him in full-time in the near future."

Although the midfield target did not play against Burnley on their pre-season tour to Northern Ireland, Burnley have kept constant tabs on his progress.

In the meantime, Burnley have agreed to a further loan spell with Chester City for striker Ian Helliwell.

Helliwell joined the Third Division side last month and has impressed Chester manager Kevin Ratcliffe who asked the Clarets boss to extend the loan this week.

The move has sparked speculation that Helliwell could be offered a permanent deal at the Deva Stadium. Heath added: "Ian is staying at Chester for another month. That's much better for him than coming back here and having to play reserve team football."

Burnley Reserves are in Pontins League action against York City at Turf Moor tonight (7.15). Spaniard Jesus Seba is expected to feature, as will Steve Thompson.

The fit-again Clarets midfielder will be hoping to force his way back into contention for Saturday's FA Cup tie against Lincoln City.

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