DAVID Holdsworth is hopeful of adding a new signing to his Mansfield Town squad today – but it will not be Oxford United's Luke Foster.

The 24-year-year-old central defender has made almost 100 appearances at the Kassam Stadium since joining the Us from Lincoln in February 2007.

That includes 21 games this term as Oxford have put themselves in contention for the Blue Square Premier title.

But Mexborough-born Foster has been made available for transfer during the January window by Us boss Chris Wilder following the arrival of Anthony Tonkin and Jake Wright.

However, his next destination will not be Field Mill – because he is out of Mansfield's price range in terms of wages.

Even so, Holdsworth has other targets and will be waiting by the telephone.

"I have made an enquiry about Luke but he is certainly beyond our means in terms of budget," said Holdsworth.

"Some clubs are willing to push the boat out, but we are not willing to here and want to stay on a sound financial footing.

"As always, it comes down to expense, but if you don't dip your toe in the water, you are never going to find out.

"I have made a bit of progress and I'm pleased with how things have gone.

"But it is just a case of waiting for responses now. It's frustrating, but hopefully it will be worth the wait."

Defender Aaron Brown has yet to start his trial after his car broke down.

The former Burton Albion player was expected for training on Monday.