KENT'S former England pace bowler Martin Saggers is being pursued by ambitious Essex, who look set to table a two-year deal in a bid to lure the 35-year-old away from St Lawrence.

Essex have already announced the capture of former Kent seamer David Masters on a three-year contract from Leicestershire, but the New Writtle Street club are also likely to turn their attentions to Saggers.

The right-armer with three Test caps spent a successful month on loan with Essex back in June.

First team coach at Essex Paul Grayson confirmed their bid in saying: "There is a need here to strengthen our bowling department for next season and Martin showed his ability during his month with us earlier in the summer."

Meanwhile, it is also thought Essex have declared an interest in Kent's young batsman Neil Dexter, whose first team chances at Kent have been limited in the past three of seasons.