Owls keep it in the family

Laws has talked for the first time about how he seeks the triple tonic of signing Sodje and his striker brother, Akpo, from Port Vale plus a confidence-boosting win against Hartlepool in the Carling Cup tonight.

"I've spoken to Steve Coppell about Sam Sodje and I think we have broken the barrier," said Laws, who aims to sign the brothers in time for Saturday's home clash with Bristol City.

It is also possible that defender Sam will join the Owls initially on loan, either until January or for the whole season, so the move can be processed swiftly before the deadline.

Laws said that Wednesday made an improved offer for Akpo Sodje - who is rated at around 250,000 - and he believed the decision was now down to the player.

The reason for the delay in Sam's proposed move has not been revealed but it is believed to centre on agent involvement.

"Sam is a defender with presence," said Laws. "He's quick and good in the air, somebody who can help to give us solidity at the back.

"He and his brother are targets that we talked about in the summer. Clubs tend to hang on to players as long as possible then make a decision as the deadline gets nearer.

"If the two Sodjes arrive here together, it would be a pretty unique thing.

"Akpo was a handful for us in our pre-season friendly at Port Vale. He could rattle a few centre-halves and provide something we haven't got.

"The situation with him has been on going for weeks.We have improved our offer."

Laws confirmed an earlier inquiry for Derby winger Lee Holmes but suggested he is not chasing Ipswich midfield man George O'Callaghan.