DARIO Gradi insists he doesn't expect any high-profile departures despite growing media speculation to the contrary.

The Alex boss believes it's unlikely that his star names will be joining Luke Rodgers out of the exit door over the next couple of weeks.

It's traditionally silly season in the nationals at the moment as they link everyone with anywhere.

But you can't help but get sucked in when fearing the worst, particularly if Luke Varney's name crops up on the page.

With the 23-year-old scoring for fun at the moment, it's not a surprise although his departure really could derail Crewe's season.

Aston Villa are reportedly interested along with Championship side Derby County.

And the Rams have also been tipped to move for contract-rebel Billy Jones with a seven-figure sum while Everton hold watch.

Very good business if true but that would still blow a hole in the Alex's well-documented defensive problems that have hampered the current campaign.

Rodgers has completed his £30,000 move to Port Vale and Gradi doesn't expect anyone to join him.

"While I would be happy to see Jon Otsemobor and Billy go elsewhere, I probably need to keep Billy," he said.

"From the feedback I've been given, I think he intends to wait until the summer.

"Luke and Nicky Maynard are new to the game and they're enjoying their football at the moment.

"I don't think there's any rush to move them on."

Lee Bell wants out to revive his flagging career but the boss believes he should knuckle down.

"He asked to go out on loan and I said I thought he could after Christmas," added Gradi.

"But I didn't mean immediately after.

"I think he is a bit miffed but I didn't expect him to put in a transfer request.

"Hopefully he can get his head right, settle down and do what he is capable of doing."

Crewe are still on the look out for reinforcements after missing out on full-back Brian Wilson.

League One rivals Bristol City swooped in yet again on another Alex target, landing the 23-year-old in a deal worth around £100,000.

"We had permission to talk to him but there wasn't any point," continued the boss.

Crewe will be at home to Doncaster Rovers in the first leg of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy Area Final on Tuesday, January 30, KO 7.45pm.

The return will be televised live on Sky Sports on Monday, February 12, KO 7.45pm.

A trip to the Millennium Stadium awaits the winner on Sunday, April 1, meaning the weekend jolly to Blackpool will be off.