ADRIAN Heath could well have been alerted by the fact that Burnley-born striker Andy Payton has yet to agree a new contract with First Division club Barnsley.

And contacts close to Oakwell suggest that the 28-year-old would like nothing better than to return to his roots.

That doesn't surprise the Burnley boss, but Heath is keeping his transfer plans as closely guarded as possible as he studies the overall situation before plunging in at the deep end.

Asked directly about Payton, a regular goalscorer with all his clubs, he would only say: "I am interested in any player if I think he can do a job for Burnley. And I am also aware of all the players who are out of contract."

Told that sources in Yorkshire had said the player would be keen on a move back to this area and a club close to his heart, the manager added: "I can understand that. We are a bigger club than Barnsley.

"But before I do anything, I have to make sure the players who come in are right for us."

Heath has already had dealings with Barnsley over defender Charlie Bishop.

That particular deal has been put on ice for the moment but could yet be revived, depending on the outcome of other inquiries and if the player himself receives a better offer.

Heath is away this weekend, having gone to Holland with the youth team for an international tournament.

But there should be plenty of transfer action in the coming weeks as he intends bringing in several players.

If you believe everything you read he could even have virtually an entire new team.

One newspaper has linked, in speculation, no less than 11 players with Turf Moor inside a matter of days!

The market is likely to be busy once Heath breaks the ice - but not that busy.

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