JOHN Hollins would love to sign Steve Banks - but he would probably have to mortgage Spotland first.

The Rochdale boss has become a big fan of the Wanderers' keeper, who is currently in the third and final month of his loan with the promotion chasing Third Division club and due back at the Reebok next week.

His form has sparked speculation that Hollins, who signed him as cover for the injured Neil Edwards, will be trying to secure him on a permanent deal. But Wanderers are already paying the lion's share of Banks' wages, which are well above Dale's ceiling on salaries, which suggests he will be well out of their price range when Hollins gets down to talking turkey with Sam Allardyce.

Banks need not worry about being left on the shelf, though, if Wanderers signal their intent to sell him.

Hollins reckons there will be no shortage of clubs interested if he comes on the market.

"He is due to return to Bolton on March 16 unless we decide we want to buy him," Hollins says. "I've made no secret of that fact that I think Steve has done exceptionally well for us.'

Meanwhile, Allardyce has been so impresseed with Kevin Poole's performances in the reserves that he could offer the veteran keeper a fresh deal when his short-term contract expires at the end of the season.