Crewe Alexandra are hot on the trail of Hibs outcast Clayton Donaldson as they target a replacement for Nicky Maynard who joined Bristol City last week.

The 24-year-old striker has been left out in the cold by Hibs boss Mixu Paatelainen and is now desperate to leave Easter Road.

The League One outfit have money to spend after Maynard's £2.25m move and Donaldson is believed to be on the club's shopping list.

"Funds will be made available for a replacement, we do have one earmarked," admitted Crewe coach Steve Holland.

"We've already started the ball rolling and we'll see what the next few days will bring."