Telford star Curtis Tilt leaning towards Salford City

The 24-year-old centre-half was one of Telford's standout performers last season and attracted interest from a number of parties – but appears to have opted for a lucrative offer from National League North rivals Salford.

The former Hednesford Town and Halesowen Town man followed boss Rob Smith and Larry Chambers from the Pitmen in the early stages of last season.

His performances earned Tilt rave reviews on the terraces and he quickly became a firm fans' favourite at the New Bucks Head.

Tilt was offered terms by the Bucks two weeks ago, but was said to be in talks with other clubs, telling the Shropshire Star his future would likely be cleared up by today.

Salford are backed by the famed Manchester United 'Class of '92' and bankrolled by Singaporean businessman and Valencia owner Peter Lim .

But sources in the north-west revealed that Tilt had agreed terms with Salford, who were promoted via the play-offs from the Evo-Stik Northern Premier Division last season.

After interest from former Football League outfit Dagenham & Redbridge had cooled, it appeared that Walsall-based Tilt – the only member of last season's squad other than skipper Jack Rea to confirm his position for next season – was likely to remain in Shropshire.

The Bucks boss was unable to confirm the reported finalising of a move.

"There is nothing done as far as I know," said Smith. "I was aware he was speaking to Salford but that was all. He did give himself to the end of the week so I imagine we'll hear some more today."

Tilt was one of Smith's first signings when he and Chambers returned to the helm last season, arriving in early September and making his debut in a 1-0 defeat at Bradford Park Avenue.

He went on to make 33 appearances in all competitions for Telford last season.

Smith has added two central defenders, Ben Bailey and Dan Preston, to his squad this summer.