Airdrie are heading a queue of clubs keen on Inverness striker Nathan Austin who is out of contract next month.
The 25-year old former East Fife and Falkirk front-man is also wanted by Queen of the South, Forfar, Arbroath and East Fife however the Diamonds, who recently announced plans to return to a full-time basis have made what is believed to be a lucrative offer to show Austin their intent on being the leading side in League 1 next season.
The attacker – who has scored three times in 22 appearances for Caley Thistle in the Championship this season – is believed to be keen to return to the central belt to be closer to his family and Airdrie are hoping that he will become the first of several high-profile signings this summer.
Meanwhile, Ayr manager Ian McCall is concerned that the Honest Men will go into their play-off games against Inverness that start next week without two defenders and two strikers due to injury.
Defensive centre back Steven Bell has been ruled out due to a stress fracture and attacker Craig Moore will also not play again this season due to a knee problem with McCall left hoping that the experienced Jamie Adams and leading goalscorer Lawrence Shankland can shake off knocks to be involved.
McCall said: “Jamie is giving us the greater concern and of course the longer he is out match sharpness becomes an issue.
“Lawrence has some bone bruising, but he is getting better and may get 45 minutes against Alloa this Saturday in a bid to have him ready.”