Crewe Alexandra have expressed an interest in Peterborough midfielder Callum Cooke, as revealed by Posh chairman Darragh MacAnthony.

The 22-year-old is on the transfer list at London Road, but MacAnthony has revealed that despite their interest, Crewe's valuation of the player is some way off what Posh hope to get for him.

That's a similar rhetoric rolled out by the chairman when discussing Lincoln City's interest in Mark O'Hara, with the transfer-listed players not being allowed to leave on the cheap, despite being surplus to requirements.

Cooke has been capped up to England Under 18 level and spent his youth career with Middlesbrough. He enjoyed loan spells with Blackpool and Crewe, prompting Artell's interest in his services.

Whilst at Gresty Road in 2017 he played 18 times, scoring four goals, but later made the move to League One with Posh. He's played just 13 times for them and was put on the transfer list at the end of last season.

Crewe finished the 2018/19 season in 12th place, but have been rocked by the departure of striker Jordan Bowery to MK Dons this summer.

The Verdict

This would be a wonderful signing for Crewe. Cooke is a gifted midfielder, he's got composure on the ball and fits in nicely with their football ethos.

The problem is Peterborough. They're not only valuing him too high but doing the same with their other surplus players too. It's an odd situation; if they want them sold surely they need to set an asking price that clubs can afford? After all, few other League One clubs will be looking to spend money right now, not with so many free agents around.

Any move for these players is likely to be made as the pre-season draws to a close, but by then surely Peterborough will lower their expectations to clear the wage bill?

Everyone is just trying to hold their nerve and get a good deal.