Former Irish underage international Daryl Clare is staying with Grimsby after Northampton failed to meet the club's asking price.

Ray Houghton play-alike Clare had a £200,000 price tag slapped on him by Grimsby manager Alan Buckley - four times Northampton boss Kevin Wilson's initial bid.

Negotiations have failed to close the gap and Northampton have now decided to look elsewhere. The fact that Wilson has managed to pick up Marco Gabbiadini on a free from Darlington was also probably a factor.

Clare, the star turn of the Irish u21 side in 1998, can operate on the right or as an out-and-out striker.

He spent some time with Northampton on loan last season and signalled his interest in a permanent move. Buckley responding by instantly recalling him to Blundell Park and issuing a 'hand off' message.