Crewe Alexandra's manager is 'hopeful and optimistic' the club can sign a new player before this weekend's match - despite losing one target at the last moment.

Lee Bell's recruitment plans suffered a major setback last weekend (January 7), when Thierry Nevers decided against a loan move at the last minute.

The West Ham player was expected to be presented to Alex fans before the home match against AFC Wimbledon, but he suddenly decided to join Bradford City

Crewe Alexandra drew 0-0 at home to AFC Wimbledon on Saturday - January 7 (Ryan Parker).

Bell told Crewe Alexandra's website: "We had a medical booked in on Saturday and planned to present the player to the fans before the AFC Wimbledon 0-0 draw.

"But for his own reasons the boy decided to go to another club.

"It was dealt with professionally, it's not like he just didn't turn up, but it was a blow because it was somebody we'd looked at for a while and we liked him."

Bell says last week's transfer frustration is now out of the window.

The Crewe boss is now confident the club will make a signing before this Saturday's away trip to Mansfield Town (January 14).

Lee Bell says last week's transfer frustration is now out of the window (Kevin Warburton).

Bell said: "I'm waiting on two calls today (January 10), to see where we are at with things we did late last week and early this week.

"I'm always hopeful and optimistic that we can get someone in before Saturday.

"It'll give everyone a lift when we get bodies through the door.

"The players need that freshness, some help, and competition for places. "

Bell has been granted some extra funding to add to his options during January - with a new striker a main priority.

Lachlan Brook has agreed a loan extension at the club until the end of the season (Kevin Warburton).

Last week, Lachlan Brook agreed a loan extension at the club until the end of the season.

Alex staff are currently working hard on several leads.

Bell added: "There's a lot of work to do, but everyone is doing it. They are making calls, getting background checks; all the many different things that are involved.

"It can be frustrating but you can't get too excited when you think things might be happening, because different things can come up.

Crewe Alexandra are hopeful of making at least two signings this January Transfer Window (Kevin Warburton).

"You have to move on quickly. Frustration just uses up energy, so I keep everything as positive as possible."  

Crewe Alexandra are hopeful of making at least two signings this January Transfer Window.

READ MORE: Crewe man jailed for 54 months over historic sexual abuse of young girl.

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