EXPERIENCED midfielder Nick Richardson is the latest York City player to be linked to a move to UniBond League division one champions Harrogate Town.

As exclusively revealed in yesterday's Evening Press, released City trio Kieran Darlow, Marc Thompson and Ben Rhodes have had all had talks with Town boss John Reed about joining the ambitious outfit for next season.

However, the release of Richardson from Bootham Crescent has also not gone unnoticed by Reed.

The cultured 35-year-old has had spells at Halifax, Cardiff, Wrexham, Bury and Chester before hooking up with York City in February 2001.

After 44 appearances and two goals, Richardson was told last week he would not be offered a new contract at the end of his present deal - alerting a number of clubs, including Harrogate.

Reed has a list of 30 targets as he attempts to piece together a side capable of maintaining their run of form into the premier division.

And the experience of Richardson - with almost 450 League appearances - would be vital.

Both left winger Darlow and right midfielder Rhodes attended Town's fixture against North Ferriby United last night for further talks with Reed and chairman Bill Fotherby.

Fellow released trainees, Marc Salvati and Scott Emmerson, were also lined up as potential targets, although travelling problems look set to put paid to their joining.

Updated: 11:51 Friday, April 26, 2002