Boss Richie Barker believes Crawley need a player with the X Factor if their play-off challenge is not to fade away.

The Reds boss is hopeful of resurrecting a deal for a potential match-winner after negotiations broke down last week.

Crawley’s need for a someone capable of changing a game was highlighted as they went down 2-0 at League One leaders Tranmere Rovers on Saturday despite dominating the contest for large periods.

Barker said: “We are looking for someone who has got something a little bit different. Somebody creative with a little bit of pace and maybe even a bit more of a physical presence.

“Finding that player is tough unless you have got £750,000 to spend or a wage bill that is never ending but that is why we work hard to identify these players.

“I would like to think we might have someone in place this week. I was quite a way down the line with somebody and then hit a bit of a stumbling block but hopefully we may get over that hurdle by next weekend.”

Barker’s budget could depend on the increasingly uncertain future of Kyle McFadzean. The defender was believed to be close to completing a move to Bristol City but the deal has been put into doubt following the sacking of boss Derek McInnes after their 4-0 defeat to Leicester City on Saturday.