Crawley Town boss Mark Yates is set to lose his battle to keep hold of star striker Izale McLeod.

Reds are poised to cash in on last season’s 21-goal top scorer, with Yates using the money to fund the signings of Lee Barnard and Roarie Deacon.

McLeod has been linked with a number of League One clubs following Crawley’s relegation last season, with Barnsley and Coventry City keen to sign the 30-year-old.

The former MK Dons striker is not expected to feature in tonight’s friendly against Reading after Crawley gave him the green light to discuss a move away from the Checkatrade.com Stadium.

Reds will receive a fee for McLeod, a free transfer signing last summer who has a year left on his contract, enabling Yates to strengthen his attacking options by signing Barnard and Deacon.

Former Tottenham and Southampton frontman Barnard has impressed on trial during pre-season following his release by Southend at the end of last season.

Ex-Arsenal youngster Deacon had initially been told there was no money to offer him a contract but the departure of McLeod is expected to free up the necessary funds.