Crewe boss Dario Gradi has reminded defender Chris McCready "the ball is in his court" as contract negotiations appear to have stalled.

Gradi also warned the 24-year-old there "won't be a place for him" if he continues bolstering his defence as McCready mulls over a two-year deal.

The Alex chief has already completed the signings of Julien Baudet and Neil Cox and could yet be persuaded to hand deals to

target Liam Fontaine and trialist Darren Kempson, leaving Gradi will plenty of strength in depth.

"It's the first time we have offered him (McCready) a two-year contract," explained Gradi.

"He has been injured most of the time he has been here, so I thought he would pleased with that offer. But it's fine because the grass is sometimes greener somewhere else.

"He is free to look and see what is available, but obviously I am trying to do what is best for Crewe. As I say, the ball is in his court at the moment, but if I sign more defenders then there won't be a place for him."