Leeds United close in on duo?

Brian McDermott has hinted that he is close to adding Dexter Blackstock to his Leeds United squad.

The 27-year-old has been on the fringes at Nottingham Forest this term, having made just one start during a clash against Charlton Athletic.

Although he did not confirm that a loan bid was in the offing, McDermott was full of praise when asked by the club's official website about Blackstock's quality.

"We are always trying to improve the squad. I've known Dexter Blackstock since he was a young boy as he was brought up in Oxford and played for Southampton. I know him well, he is a good lad and is good in the dressing room. He also has a decent goals ratio," the manager said.

Reports have also claimed that free agent Marius Zaliukas is in talks with the Championship club. The Lithuanian has been without a team since his release by Hearts in the summer.