Scottish clubs chase Gazza after American move breaks down

PARTICK manager John Lambie has admitted his interest in taking Paul Gascoigne back to Glasgow but concedes wages may prove to be a stumbling block.

Dundee are already waiting for a response from the former England international after boss Jim Duffy expressed his interest following the collapse of the player's move to the United States with DC United last week.

The 35-year-old is waiting to hear if he will find another club in America over the next 48 hours but the Major Soccer League season begins in January leaving the opportunity of a short-term contract at a British club.

Gascoigne's agent Ian Elliott admits a return to Scotland could prove tempting to the ex-Rangers man.

But Lambie concedes he is pessimistic about the possibility of landing Gascoigne for the SPL newcomers.

''We have considered making a move for Paul but I cannot see it happening because of finance.

''At the end of the day, you show an interest and it is then up in the air.

''I have never spoken to Paul Gascoigne but I asked someone at the club to get in touch with his agent this morning.But they (the agent) never came back so obviously there is no interest from them.''

However, Dundee boss Duffy is confident he can at least meet the player to discuss a possible deal.

Duffy said: ''He is a player who can lift the team, have a very good effect on those around him and is always hungry for the ball. Whatever other benefits there could be, that's all that interests me.

''He plays football the way we want to play it and, as well as appealing to us, I think that might appeal to him.

''I am sure he will have other offers involving more money than we can come up with. But if he did come here he would be playing a style of football he likes."

But agent Elliott has warned that Gascoigne is desperately keen to finish his rollercoaster career in the United States.

Elliott said: ''Paul has always said he wants to finish his career in the US but the move last week broke down.We will find out in the next 48 hours if he can go to America for the start of their season which is in January.

''I don't know if Jim Duffy would be prepared to take him on a short-term deal.''