FORMER England fast bowler Martin Saggers is being courted by Warwickshire but Kent are fighting to keep their man at St Lawrence.

The 33-year-old Norfolk-born seamer is one of six Kent players now out of contract and the likeliest to attract suitors from other counties, including this initial bid from the Birmingham-based club.

Barely 18 months ago Saggers was winning his three England Test caps having enjoyed four 50-wicket seasons in championship cricket, including a career-best season of 83 victims in 2002.

Saggers’ value on the open market has also increased this winter as new ECB regulations, which come into place next summer, will financially penalise clubs who exceed their quota of Kolpak or non-England qualified players.

That, together with Saggers’ undoubted pedigree, could mean the player’s mobile telephone becomes a little busier in weeks to come.

He said: "I’m not sure myself what the future holds at the moment and in reality there isn’t too much to report just yet.

"I ran out of contract at the end of September and became a free agent at that point, so it’s not really a matter for Kent to give me permission to speak with other clubs, I am free to talk with whoever may be interested.

"I have spoken with Warwickshire and I am waiting to hear back from them but it’s fair to say that I have also been offered a year’s contract extension by Kent."

Only last season Kent lost Alex Loudon to Warwickshire and Ed Smith to Middlesex, and while Saggers’ age and form will be an issue, the club will be keen to prevent Saggers becoming the next high-profile departure.

In what may develop into a similar scenario to that of Mark Ealham, who left Kent in controversial circumstances two years ago, Saggers is thought to want a longer deal.

He added: "I can’t really go into detail, but with a baby on the way I have to consider my options, the welfare of my wife and family and our long-term security.

"I know I’ve not had the best of seasons, but fitness isn’t an issue and I think everyone at the club knows I am happy here, that I enjoy playing for Kent and that in my heart I would like to stay."

Of the other five players up for re-negotiation, Kent are still holding talks with spinners Min Patel, James Tredwell and Rob Ferley, as well as former England Under-19 batsman Joe Denly.

At this stage only Alamgir Sheriyar, whose three-year deal is at an end, looks certain to be released.