Plymouth boss Paul Sturrock wants Noone, 20, at Home Park and the Championship outfit are close to agreeing a deal with the Conference North club.

The deal could be worth even more, with add-on payments if Noone plays a certain number of games for Argyle.

"Plymouth have come in for Craig Noone and they've made a substantial offer," said Southport boss Liam Watson.

"It would be a great opportunity for him to play in the Football League, and he has the ability to do that.

"If he signs for Plymouth I'm sure he will play in the Premier League one day, because he has tons of potential.

"Carl Baker went to Morecambe a year ago and did extremely well, and he has made the step up to the next level with Stockport County this season.

"I would expect Craig to do the same. He has real ability and a desire to achieve things."

The Sandgrounders have had considerable interest from several clubs, but Plymouth are the first to make a concrete offer for Noone, who had a trial with Manchester United's feeder club Royal Antwerp before Watson signed him at Burscough last season.

Noone featured in an opening-day success at Gainsborough Trinity, as did Mark Duffy, still a Morecambe target after Sammy McIlroy registered his interest in the 22-year-old midfielder last week.

Port open their Blue Square North home programme against Blyth Spartans at Haig Avenue tonight, but Alan Moogan is suspended.

Meanwhile, striker Tony Gray, leading scorer last season, has signed a new two-year contract at Haig Avenue.