Crewe are in talks with Chelsea over a new goalkeeper signing.

Crewe boss Dario Gradi is keen to draft in cover for Steve Phillips, who has recently undergone a second shoulder operation.

Gradi, who has a long-standing friendship with Chelsea reserve-team manager Steve Holland, told the club's official website: "Steve has recommended a young goalkeeper to us and he'll come up and join us for pre-season."

He added: "It would initially be a short-term loan deal and we'll see where we are once Steve Phillips is back fit, and if he wants to be his understudy.

"The attraction for him is that he would start the season in the team, because although I do expect Steve Phillips to sign for us, I do not expect him to be fit for the start of the season.

"We expect him to miss the first few games of the season, so it would give this lad an opportunity."