SWINDON Robins have made an offer to buy last season’s title winning skipper Hans Andersen on a full-transfer from parent club Peterborough.

The two clubs have been at the centre of a tug-of-war for the entire off season over the futures of Andersen and Troy Batchelor, with the Panthers insisting they were considering using both riders during 2013.

Kenneth Bjerre started last season as the Panthers’ number one before seeing his season ended by a broken leg, but with the club having already announced the signing of Linus Sundstrom prior to the AGM in November, there is now only room for one of Bjerre, Andersen or Batchelor at the Showground.

Panthers bosses have offered Andersen a contract which they say he has rejected, and have now insisted the 32-year-old must become a Robins asset if he is to spearhead the club’s bid to retain the Elite League title.

The former Grand Prix rider is also due a testimonial as he celebrates 10 years in British speedway, and Swindon co-promoter Gary Patchett revealed it could be held at Blunsdon if Anderson does move to the club full-time.

“Peterborough have told us they have offered Hans terms for next year, which he has turned down,” he said.

“They have also said they will only sell him to us and not loan him out.

“During the winter we have always said to Peterborough we would never discount buying Hans, but at 32 we have to take into account his age and the fact he is due a testimonial which comes at some expense to the club.

“We have made an offer to Peterborough which reflects all that and we are waiting for a reply on it, but Hans has made no secret about wanting to come back to Swindon.”

Although the Panthers are unlikely to use a top two of Sundstrom and Batchelor in the new campaign, Peterborough are also keen to secure a transfer fee rather than a loan fee for his services.

Meanwhile, the home leg of the Elite Shield clash with Poole is set to be held on Thursday March 28, with the return at the Pirates the following afternoon on Good Friday.

The Robins’ press and practice day has been organised for Thursday, March 7, with the Bob Kilbey Memorial meeting on Thursday, March 14 and a challenge fixture at home to Peterborough on Thursday, March 21.