CREWE Alexandra are in talks to sign two defenders as they look to bolster their defence.

Problems at the back have played a huge part in successive relegation battles and the Alex are determined to get it right this summer.

Although assistant boss Neil Baker was reluctant to name names, full-back Greg Leigh is expected to be one after his successful loan stint.

Experienced centre half Peter Clarke could be the other.

Despite being one of their better performers, the 33-year-old has been released by Blackpool after dropping into League One.

It’s likely Crewe will face competition for a player with more than550 games and Championship pedigree under his belt.

However his Southport base could favour a move to South Cheshire.

Defender Alan Tate remains an alternative option while a central midfielder remains a priority.

“We’ve identified midfielders and spoken to agents that represent them,” explained Baker.

“That will take its course quickly now.

“I’d also like to see a winger, a real good, quick one.

“I’m not sure we have that within the ranks below.

“But I don’t think we’ll be looking for strikers because we have Marcus (Haber), Lauri (Dalla Valle) and hopefully Ryan (Colclough).

“There will also be Fraser Murdoch and Callum Saunders to consider.

“We’re as keen as the supporters to bring in players but at this stage, it’s always very quiet as most players are still under contract.”

Baker says better football and unearthing more stars is the aim for next season.

“We must never lose sight of what this club is about,” he added.

“It’s about producing players to play in the team and then move on – it’s how we survive.

“It’s not the budget, it’s what we want to do.

“Hopefully a bigger core of the team will be our own players, supplemented by two or three good signings.

“We need to get George (Cooper) in the side and hopefully Ryan will sign a contract and play a lot more games.

“Young James Jones has come to the fore, Ben (Garratt) will be fit while George Ray will improve.

“Harry (Davis) is an integral part of the team, Ollie Turton came through and we could have Matt Tootle back.

“Our philosophy is to play as many of our own players as we can and if can add to those areas we’ve identified then I’m confident we can have a better season.

Keeper Scott Shearer will be allowed to leave which could mean a reprieve for free agent Paul Rachubka, 34, who played 15 times during the run-in.

“Paul is coming in and keeping himself ticking over,” continued Baker.

“I don’t think we gave him the praise he deserved last season.”