CUMNOCK have a battle on their hands with a host of senior sides to secure one of their star players ahead of the new campaign.

Aiden Malone is weighing up his options as he looks to secure his immediate future.

Malone has been offered a new deal to stay at Townhead Park, but he has also attracted interest from clubs in League One and League Two in the senior game.

Boss John McKeown is hopeful that his star man will pen a new deal but he has been left sweating as the forward makes his decision.

Speaking to the Chronicle, McKeown said: "Aiden was fantastic for us last season and it's no surprise that he has attracted interest from a few senior clubs.

"It would be great if we could get a deal done, but it's down to Aiden now. He's weighing up his options at the minute.

"Aiden has given me his word that he will not sign for another junior club and if he moves on it will be to a senior club. To be honest I appreciate his honesty in letting me know.

"We feel that we mad Aiden a fantastic offer so we're just waiting to see what Aiden decides to do now."

The Cumnock boss has already fought off interest of another star. Del Esplin put pen to paper on a deal earlier this month, despite interest from Kilbirnie Ladeside.

McKeown was boosted this week after two new recruits both agreed to move to Nock for next season. Scott Anson sealed a deal from Shettleston and William Wells signed from Maryhill.

The Townhead gaffer also secured young star, Keiren Wood on a permanent deal from Ayr United after the 20 year old defender impressed during a loan spell last season.

McKeown is also on the look out for a goalie. Darren Johnstone has now left the club and with Graeme Shepherd yet to agree a new deal the Townhead gaffer is keeping his option open as he looks to add a keeper to his ranks.

Cumnock pre-season gets underway next week as McKeown whips his troops in to shape ahead of their Premier Division campaign.

Nock's pre-season schedule gets underway when they take on Lanark at Townhead Park on Saturday July 23.