HAYES & Yeading look to have missed out on their primary goalkeeping target Louis Wells.

Wells spent the latter part of last season on loan at United and made a big impression on the club’s hierarchy during his short stay.

He was released by Dartford last month and Phil Babb made securing Wells (pictured) one of his main priorities this summer and put an offer on the table.

But the 31-year-old has found himself in demand following his exit from the Blue Square Premier club and was in no hurry to commit to a decision.

And club sources have indicated to the Gazette this week that Wells has made his mind up and decided to accept an offer to play his football elsewhere.

Babb is looking for an experienced goalkeeper to take possession of the number one shirt, with Brandon Hall seen as too young for the role next season.

It is expected that Hall, who made 24 appearances between the sticks for the club last term, will not wear United colours again in 2013-14.

Former QPR youngster Elvijs Putnins remains a target for the club and is due to hold further talks when he returns from a summer holiday.

However, the 21-year-old Lativian, who was released by Woking last month, is not the commanding old head that United are seeking either.

Putnins is highly regarded by Babb but it is believed he sees the young shot-stopper as one for the future.

He could arrive as a number two and United are still in discussions with a number of other keepers as they look to add a reassuring presence at the back.