Surprised City received a five-figure sum for Crewe-bound Steve Schumacher - despite the midfielder being out of contract.

Chairman Julian Rhodes confirmed the League One outfit paid a nominal fee for the schemer who has penned a three-year deal at Gresty Road.

It is a welcome piece of business for City who weren't entitled to demand any cash for the former Everton trainee.

"Schuey was a free agent but Crewe came in and made the offer," he said.

"It's not a huge amount but we got a small fee for a lad who was out of contract so we're pleased with that."

High-earner Schumacher made 130 appearances for City since signing from Goodison Park three years ago but wasn't offered a new contract following the club's relegation.

The 23-year-old is the first of ten released players to find a new club as the clear-out begins.

But Rhodes has reassured supporters there will be plenty of activity the other way once new boss Stuart McCall finishes his holiday and gets behind the desk on Monday.

"Stuart has already spoken to a few players and told them to hold fire before signing for anyone else," he said.

"He's arriving next week and then the re-building will start in earnest.

"Discussions have been going on with a host of players. We have identified a few targets and will be identifying a few more once Stuart is here with a view to starting them up for June 28, the first day of pre-season training."