Oldham Athletic have not ruled out a new deal for Joe Yarney, but the ball remains in the defender's court.

Yarney signed a pre-contract agreement after a successful first month with the club in January, which extended his initial short-term deal at Boundary Park to the end of the 2023/24 season.

However, having previously played in India, international clearance regulations meant the contract could not be ratified until this summer.

In the meantime, Yarney established himself as a fans' favourite, with his defensive performances contributing to a strong end to the season for Latics.

As a result of his progress, and popularity, his initial offer was reviewed and increased, but it remains unsigned with both parties unable to agree on the terms and leaving Yarney a free agent as things stand.

Speaking to The Oldham Times, Latics boss David Unsworth explained: "I like Joe and we tried to keep him and made him a great offer, but he wanted more.

"We felt we had gone really fair and above and beyond what we'd already agreed and parameters just kept changing.

"We're not a club that can bankroll every player's demands. There comes a point, and that's where we're up to.

"The deal is there."

Yarney, a former Everton and Newcastle youth team player, was playing in the Indian Super League last season and initially joined Latics on trial.

At the time of agreeing his contract extension, having impressed at both right back and centre half, he said: "I'm happy to get the deal done, as I've really enjoyed my time here over the last month.

"We've got a good set of lads in the changing room, there's a good atmosphere, and everyone's working really hard."

Of the current situation with Yarney, Unsworth added: "We're not trying to penny pinch, we're looking for fair offers, fair deals and players desperate to play for Oldham Athletic.

"If that was to change we'd have a conversation.

"But we cannot be held to ransom. I have a budget and I stick to it."