ANTHONY Stewart could be a Crewe Alexandra player as early as Thursday, with a loan deal a possibility in ending the defender's contract limbo.

The 22-year-old could leave Wanderers on loan despite not technically being their player, as the club retains his registration due to him being under the age of 24.

Such a deal would need to be concluded by Thursday's 5pm loan deadline however.

Stewart will be keen for both sides to thrash out a deal, having not played first team football since the end of last season after turning down Wanderers' offer of a new contract.

He has been training with the Alex in recent weeks but his contract situation has complicated matters.

Due to his age Wanderers would be entitled to a fee for Stewart from Crewe.

Manager Steve Davis recently declared his interest in the player and told the League One club's website today: "We are trying to come to an agreement with Anthony and his club Wycombe. He just wants to play again and we hope we can work something out to suit everyone.

"Wycombe are entitled to compensation and we respect that.

"He is a good player and we are looking ahead because we have a number of players out on contract in the summer. He is an athletic, quick and powerful young player. There is something there to work with and we believe he has got something."