TRANMERE Rovers are leading the chase for Darlington striker Barry Conlon.

Former Quakers boss Brian Little is reported to be lining up an approach for the 25-year-old, who is out of contract in the summer.

Conlon has hinted at extending his three-year association with Quakers, but under the club's poor financial situation, David Hodgson is resigned to losing his leading scorer.

And while Rovers have emerged as early contenders for Conlon's services, they will face competition for his signature after Hodgson revealed the Irishman has the pick of "eight or nine" clubs.

Hodgson turned down an approach from Sheffield Wednesday in January to take Conlon on loan, while Macclesfield and Swansea were both unsuccessful with £35,000 bids. Hartlepool were also linked with the 13-goal forward.

Conlon has established himself as one of the Third Division's most prolific marksmen since joining Quakers in a £60,000 deal from York City in July 2001, scoring 41 goals in three seasons.

Hodgson has held initial talks with Conlon this week but it is unlikely that Quakers will be able to compete with what others are able to offer.

Conlon will return to the side in what could be his last game for the club tomorrow as Quakers complete their season at Scunthorpe.

On-loan Sunderland striker Neil Teggart may have to settle for a place on the bench in his final game before returning to the Stadium of Light, with Conlon expected to partner Middlesbrough youngster Danny Graham in attack.

Like Teggart, Graham is due to return to his parent club after the trip to Glanford Park. However, Hodgson is hopeful of bringing the 18-year-old back to the club next season.

Defender Joey Hutchinson will return after a one-match ban and will replace Craig Liddle, who will undergo a knee operation this morning.