Phil Parkinson today admitted City’s recruitment plans are “in limbo” until they know what is happening with the out-of-contract players.

Parkinson has been pressing on with transfer targets but the money available hinges on members of the current squad making up their mind.

Rory McArdle signed a new three-year deal earlier this week but City are waiting on others whose contracts are up. Stephen Darby, James Meredith and Jon McLaughlin are among those thought to be considering fresh offers.

With the wage budget down by £500,000 from last season, Parkinson wants to make sure the cash can stretch.

He said: “We’re working on several things and have more meetings lined up next week. But it’s early days and we’re just sounding people out at this stage.

“We’ve made offers for a few of our existing players. Until they decide what they are going to do, that leaves us in a little bit of limbo in terms of what we can offer others because the budget is lower.”

Midfielder Billy Knott, thought to be on Parkinson’s wanted list, insists he will not be rushed over his next move.

Knott, a free agent after being released by Sunderland, said on Twitter: “I haven’t signed for Bradford; it’s rumours.

“I won’t be making any decisions until I’ve had a nice holiday with friends and family.”

Port Vale are also chasing the 21-year-old’s signature after a successful loan spell there during the second half of last season.