Whelan has taken 18 first-class wickets in 2009

Worcestershire have received 28 days notice of approach from Kent for paceman Chris Whelan, but say they are likely to offer him a new contract.

The 23-year-old is the club's leading wicket-taker but his current deal runs out at the end of the season.

Worcestershire director of cricket Steve Rhodes said: "Given the way he has bowled this season, there is every chance he will be offered a deal here."

Whelan left Middlesex for New Road two years ago after a lack of games.

Whelan has taken advantage of injuries to Kabir Ali and Simon Jones to cement his place in the side this season.

He began his career with Lancashire and took his first five-wicket haul against them in the LV County Championship match at New Road last month.

Whelan is the second Worcestershire player to attract interest from other counties, with Surrey and Yorkshire having already given 28 days notice of approach for wicketkeeper Steve Davies.

The England Lions player has been offered a new three-year deal but wants to keep his options open until the end of the season.

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