Keith Curle has insisted that he will not "force out" any of the players he has transfer-listed at Carlisle United.

The manager has admitted there is strong interest from the National League in defenders Mark Ellis and Shaun Brisley.

They were made available by the Blues boss along with midfielder Joe McKee last week.

But while United are open to either loan or permanent moves for the trio, Curle said all three had responded in the right way to his decision.

And he said none of them would be made to leave Brunton Park against their wishes.

Curle said: "I've had interest from a top-end Conference team in both Mark Ellis and Shaun Brisley.

"I spoke to both players and gave them permission to speak to the football club, if they were interested.

"I've [also] given their manager [permission] to speak to the players.

"But I'm not forcing anyone out of the door. Being made available is not the end."

Curle said he expected any discussions to have taken place on Sunday and Monday between the players and the unnamed club.

It is understood, though, that more than one National League club are monitoring developments.

But any move may hinge on finances with both Ellis and Brisley under contract until the end of next season and McKee on a one-year deal with the option to extend.

Curle handed McKee his full league debut for United against Accrington on Saturday despite telling the Scot he could leave this month.

The former Morton man played 64 minutes before being replaced by Jabo Ibehre.

Curle last week suggested the players' form this season were among the reasons they were being made available.

He also said his decision might act as a "kick up the backside" that would see performances improve.

Asked how the three players had taken the news they were being made available, Curle added: "Exactly the way I expected they would, with their character and their professionalism, [which is] unquestionable.

"They are good professionals. They are desperate to be playing. They are working extremely hard so that, as and when they are given the opportunity, they are ready to step in."

The manager has already offloaded four players in the last two weeks as he tries to make new signings before the transfer window closes.

Curle yesterday appealed for a big crowd at this weekend's home game against Barnet so that funds would be made available for additions.

Bradford, meanwhile, have emerged as possible contenders for Charlie Wyke's signature this month.

Reports in Yorkshire have credited the League One club - whose chief scout is ex-United boss Greg Abbott - with interest in the 17-goal striker.

Manager Stuart McCall is likely to have cash to spend with striker James Hanson moving to Sheffield United but no bid is so far believed to have been tabled for the Blues frontman.

Carlisle declined to comment.