SHAKERS boss Graham Barrow believes the departure of top scorer David Nugent from Gigg Lane is "imminent."

Barrow revealed after the Shakers latest setback that six clubs have enquired about his 19-year-old marksman.

"Some have gone behind my back, which is disappointing, but there has been a lot of interest now," confirmed the Shakers chief.

"And some people might not like to hear it but I think it's only a matter of time before he goes.

"The lad hasn't got to the stage of talking to clubs but I think it's almost imminent before he goes."

Barrow confirmed Preston are among the clubs to enquire about the 13-goal striker who missed two great opportunities to earn Bury a deserved point at Sincil Bank.

But he dismissed recent reports suggesting the sum involved could be as high as £250,000.

It is known Chester have upped their bid to £60,000 while former Bury chief Neil Warnock at Sheffield United is thought to have offered £30,000.

Nugent played in Monday's final holiday fixture - a goal-less draw with Oxford United at Gigg Lane - but there's every chance it could be his last appearance in a Bury shirt.

And while his sale will ease the club's financial state-described by Barrow as "terrible" - it will virtually kill-off any chances of Bury scraping a play-off place.