Tiverton Town are holding their breath following the news that Dorchester Town have made a seven-day approach for star striker Owen Howe.
The Tivvy player was free to discuss personal terms as of Monday following an approach by the Southern League Premier Division strugglers last week.
Howe, who confirmed that he turned down the Magpies over the summer, insisted he was not looking for a move away from Ladysmead, but admitted an improved offer might prove too good to turn down.
"I told Martyn (Rogers – manager) that I would speak to them just to hear what they had to offer and whatever else, and that is where I am," said Howe. "Sometimes, when the offer is right, you just can't say no.
"They offered me £180 at the start of the season, which is quite a bit more than what I am on down at Tiverton, but I turned them down so I would guess it (the offer) will be either the same or a bit more than that.
"It would have to be a lot more than what I am on at Tiverton to make me move. You have to take things like travelling into consideration and I'm happy here."
Should Howe decide to move on, it would come as a significant blow to the Ladysmead club.
Not only does he top the scoring charts with 12 goals, but he was also Rogers' marquee signing over the summer.
The Tivvy youth product was tempted back from Bideford as Rogers looked to build his side with a core of local players.
Boasting a superb goal-scoring record at youth level, Howe was initially promoted to the first team by Mark Saunders.
He responded with four goals in the first three league games of the 2012/13 season, but with the likes of Michael Nardiello, Joe Bushin, Jules Emati-Emati and Dave Pearse also vying for two starting berths, he ended up moving to Willand Rovers.
His 20 goals in 22 games – including the winner in the Les Phillips Cup against Hallen – secured him a move to the Robins, where he enjoyed a solid season before Rogers pounced.
"I am happy at Tiverton but if it is a move which is going to take you further then you have to consider it," said Howe, who is mid-way through a four-match suspension.
"Doing well with Tiverton is obviously important, but if the money is a lot better then I would be moving up the leagues too, which is hard to turn down.
"Going up is obviously important. Every player wants to play as high as they can do and if you get the chance to do that, it is hard to turn down.
"I just want to hear what they have to say. It might be a good enough offer, it might not. We will just have to wait and see."
A relaxed Rogers admitted it was Howe's decision, but said he was not rushing out to sign a replacement just yet.
"It is up to the lad. I probably would be a bit disappointed if he did go but football is football," said Rogers. "He is a good player and a real Tivvy lad.
"Owen will make his decision as and when and then I will look to make a decision.
"I am not looking for a replacement at the moment because he is suspended anyhow."
