TOWN supremo Lee Power has confirmed the club are in talks to sign former Manchester United and New York Red Bulls defender Richard Eckersley.

The 26-year-old full-back featured in pre-season against West Bromwich Albion and Liverpool and given the paucity of Town’s current squad boss Mark Cooper has stated an interest in him because of his versatility.

Eckersley would also bring experience to a Town side where the only squad member currently over the age of 25 is Fabien Robert.

Talking to BBC Wiltshire, Power revealed Town are trying to bring in the former United man and remained hopeful of having a deal completed next week.

“I know Mark would like to do something (with Eckersley),” said Power.

“He can play in a number of positions which is valuable to us, he’s one we’re looking at and talking to at the moment and something might happen with that next week.”

Power also confirmed the signing of Bradley Barry, who has penned a one-year deal at the County Ground.

The chairman believes the nephew of England international Gareth is one for the future. Power explained that loan deals for both the 21-year-old, and James Brophy, whose capture was announced on Thursday, could be in the pipeline.

“Both them lads (Barry and Brophy) have come in for pre-season and done really well,” added Power.

“They are lads for future. They might go and play games somewhere or they definitely get some game time here if their opportunity comes. They’re both good additions to the squad.”

Power’s view on Barry was corroborated by boss Cooper.

"(Barry) is just another one that we are going to work with,” said the County Ground chief.

“He's probably not ready right now, he's a young full-back who's mobile and he's got loads for us to work on.

"He's a good athlete, strong and we'll do some work with him."