Sliema Wanderers are hopeful of securing their fourth major signing of the close season in the coming days after reaching agreement with Premier League rivals Birkirkara for the transfer of Etienne Barbara.

The Malta striker has long been a target for Sliema but the latter took their time before renewing their interest after the end of last season.

Last January, Birkirkara rejected Sliema's offer for Barbara but now the Stripes are ready to negotiate. Only days after the season was over, Birkirkara declared that Barbara and three other first-team players were not in their plans.

After a period of uncertainty over Barbara's future in Maltese football, Sliema restarted negotiations yesterday for the striker's transfer.

Sliema and Birkirkara both confirmed that they have agreed terms over Barbara's move. Now that an accord between the two clubs is in place, Sliema's focus will now turn on discussions with Barbara over personal terms.

Apart from Barbara, 25, Sliema have been courting another Birkirkara player, Roderick Briffa.

Valletta are also keen on the midfielder but, so far, neither they nor the Blues have succeeded in prising the Malta international away from Birkirkara.

Bogdanovic tries his luck with Stoke

Daniel Bogdanovic, who had also been linked with a return to the Wanderers, is currently undergoing a trial with Championship club Stoke City. The 27-year-old wants to move abroad this summer and has already had trials with Watford and Crystal Palace.

Bogdanovic, who last month turned down an invitation for a second trial with Norwegian side Brann Bergen, is one of several players training with Stoke with a view of earning a contract.

According to reports in England, Stoke manager Tony Pulis could give Bogdanovic a run-out in a pre-season friendly against Newcastle Town.