ADRIAN Heath moved a step closer to his first summer signing today after secret talks with a mystery Premiership international this weekend, writes TONY DEWHURST.

But the Clarets chief has denied his number one target is Republic of Ireland defender Paul McGrath. Two reports have linked Burnley to the out-of-contract Derby County stopper but Heath said: "There is nothing in that.

"I'm good friends with Paul McGrath from my Aston Villa days and that, presumably, is why people are linking him to us.

"But there is nothing in those reports."

Heath added: "The player I have in mind is a major target and it would be a big signing for Burnley.

"I've got a list of players I want to bring in but my main priority remains the player from a Premiership club.

"More talks with his agent are planned this week and there is a good chance of something happening soon.

"I'm not in a position to reveal any names or the club he plays for.

"I don't want to risk losing him to another club. "Ideally, I want to bring in at least another four players.

"Possibly two defenders, a midfielder and an attacker."

John Ward, the former Clarets number two, saw Bristol City lose 2-1 to Brentford at Ashton Gate yesterday in the first leg of the play-off semi-final.

Goals from Paul Smith and Robert Taylor gave David Webb's side a precious lead to for the return leg at Griffin Park on Wednesday.

Ward said: "We wanted to do what Brentford did to us, play the ball quickly and set the pace for the first 20 minutes. But we were always chasing the game even after we drew level.

"It will be extremely tough for us on Wednesday. It's hard but it is possible to go there and win 2-0. Dafter things have happened in football."

In the other semi-final, Crewe Alexandra defeated Luton 2-1.

Ex-England boss Graham Taylor, who has been working as general manager at Watford, is now also taking charge of team affairs at Vicarage Road.

Taylor will also continue as general manager, with Kenny Jackett reverting from team manager to first-team coach.

Watford, beaten 4-1 at Turf Moor on the final day of the season, missed out on the promotion play-offs.

Heath is attending a two-day manager's seminar at Moulden in Essex this week.

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