November 15 2001

Sean Hankin

Crystal Palace and Torquay United have agreed terms for the permanent transfer of Sean Hankin to the Devon outfit.

Hankin and Torquay have also agreed a contract, but there are still some complications.

The complications lie in the fact that the only way in which Hankin can be eligible to play in Torquay's FA Cup tie against Northampton Town on Saturday is if Palace agree to extend his loan for a further month.

Seven days clearance is required for any new signing but an extended loan would allow him to qualify for that Cup tie.

Mike Hurst, Crystal Palace secretary and Gulls Chairman Mike Bateson are confident that the deal will be done and that Hankin will be allowed to play on Saturday against Northampton.

Gulls boss Roy McFarland said: "I am very keen to have Sean on board with us especially as we seem to be losing young Williamson to Southampton." "He's a good steady player and exactly the sort of character I need in the squad."

It is expected the deal will be signed early next week. Palace are said to want £25,000 for the player with a substantial future sale "knock-on" share.