WIMBORNE Town manager Steve Cuss has confirmed his interest in Merley Cobham Sports hotshot Luke Stone.

Cuss has spoken with Stone and Merley boss Ollie Cherrett regarding the possibility of dual signing the striker with the Cuthbury outfit.

Stone, who started the season with Hamworthy Recreation, has plundered 26 goals in the Dorset Premier League, his exploits helping Merley to the top of the table.

One of the most prolific marksmen at the step seven level, Stone hit 40 goals in 33 games for Rec last season, with this season’s haul coming from just 17 appearances.

Cuss told the Daily Echo: “We have spoken to Luke and he is weighing up his options as to whether he comes to us or sticks with Merley for the rest of the season.

“He is a player that I like a lot and I want to give him the opportunity to step up to a higher level to see if he can carry on scoring goals.

“We are working with Merley and I have spoken with Ollie Cherrett about what would be best for the player.

“There is a possibility he could dual sign for both teams for the remainder of the season. We are trying to come up with an arrangement which suits Luke.”

Cuss also said he was hoping to complete a loan signing ahead of Wimborne’s clash with Southern League Division One South & West rivals Larkhall at Cuthbury on Saturday (3pm).

Mark Gamble and Jamie Davidson are set to return against the reigning Western League champions, although Jason Harvell and Matt Kemble are ruled out.

Magpies: (from) Field, Maybury, Biles, Oliver, Roast, Lupton, Blake, Stokoe, Kellaway, Waters, Davidson, Gamble, Griffin, Davidson, Phelps, Brimson, Hesselden.