Strikers Steven Hislop and Lee Bryce, midfielders Robert Sloan and Chris Silvestro, and versatile veteran Andy Tod have all agreed new one-year contracts.

However, experienced defender Mark Campbell has stalled leaving manager John McGlynn to sweat over a player he regards as a key member of the squad.

"When you look around at centre-backs there's not many as dominant in the air as Mark," McGlynn said.

"There are very few centre-backs like Mark and he would be very difficult to replace. He's a big presence in defence for us.

"Mark lives in Kilmarnock and he's doing a lot of travelling. That's why it's taking that bit longer to decide."

While negotiations with Campbell continue, SportsPress understands that McGlynn is also locked in talks with two goalkeepers, and one could sign over the weekend.

"Preferably we want someone who can keep the ball out of the goals," McGlynn said.

"We need someone to stamp his authority on the defence, communicate and organise as well as keeping concentration when they have lengthy spells of inactivity."

Although the club would not confirm it, Laurie Ellis also appears to be on his way back to Stark's Park for a third time.

Stirling Albion's official website has issued a statement claiming that the defender has left Forthbank to return to Rovers.

Ellis, who was released by both Antonio Calderon and Gordon Dalziel during two separate spells at the club, will join Mark Ferry in becoming a new signing for season 2008-09.

McGlynn explained: "We are still in negotiations with a number of potential new targets which will be concluded over the next two or three weeks."

Iain Davidson has handed the club a boost by agreeing an extension to his existing deal.

The 24-year-old has put pen to paper on an improved contract that will see him stay at Stark's Park until 2010.

McGlynn explained: "We see Iain as a big asset to the football club.

''We have to try to reward that asset by giving him a better deal, and it gives us a stronger negotiating platform should he attract interest from elsewhere.

"I have no doubts that Iain could make the step into the First Division and has the potential to play in the SPL."

Lee Bryce (18), is the only youth player to be offered a senior contract and McGlynn expects the teenager to be involved in the first team.

"He has pace, is very positive, and very strong," McGlynn said. "He's upset defenders at under 19 level and done fairly well in the first team at the end of the season.

"Pace can be a huge asset in the lower leagues, especially when you add in determination and a desire to work.

''Lee's just turned 18 so we don't want to put pressure on him, but we're hoping he gives us an option off the bench now and again

"Who knows, depending on circumstances, he may start to play more regularly as the season goes on."

RAITH have confirmed three preseason friendlies. They are away to Stenhousemuir on Saturday, July 12, home to Hibs on Tuesday, July 15 before Dundee United visit Stark's Park on Saturday, July 19.