Barrow AFC say they have approached a club to seek permission to speak to their top manager target.

It is the latest move in the Bluebirds' search for a new boss after the departure of Phil Brown.

The club have not revealed which club or person they are targeting.

But Barrow are hoping it will lead to a breakthrough in their attempt to secure a new manager soon after Brown's exit.

Names figuring highly in the betting include FC Halifax Town boss Pete Wild and Gateshead's Mike Williamson.

National reports today have also linked Barrow with their former player-coach Sam Hird, who is on Ian Evatt's coaching staff at Bolton Wanderers.

The Bluebirds' statement did not specify whether their target was currently a manager or a coach.

The Bluebirds said in a statement: "The club can reassure all supporters that work is continuing behind the scenes to appoint a new first team manager as we look ahead to the 2022/23 League Two campaign.

"We have worked swiftly to identify our top target and can confirm that on Monday an approach was made to his current club to ask for permission to speak to him regarding our vacancy and agree appropriate compensation.

"We will keep fans updated on any further developments."

It comes after yesterday's appointment of new sporting director Iain Wood, who the club said would be playing a key role in the manager recruitment process.

Brown left Holker Street last week after the club and the experienced manager failed to agree terms.

The former Hull City and Southend United boss had been in charge for the last nine games of the season as the Bluebirds secured their League Two safety. Assistant Neil McDonald has also left the Dunes Hotel Stadium.

It leaves the Bluebirds seeking their sixth new boss since their return to the EFL.