Gradi has generated �30m in transfer fees in his time at Crewe

Crewe manager Dario Gradi has said he will not spend vast amounts of money to replace John Brayford and James Bailey.

The pair moved to Derby County on Wednesday, with the Alex set to receive an initial fee of around £1m.

"We would if we thought it would be a good investment, but the days of us spending £500,000 on a player are long gone," Gradi told BBC Radio Stoke.

"[If I wanted to spend any money] it would be up to me to persuade the board, which I have done in the past."

Gradi continued: "When we were buying the likes of Calvin Zola a couple of years ago, we were spending £100,000, and I think those days are gone as well."

John was our best defender, so he'll be a big hole to fill Crewe manager Dario Gradi

The 68-year-old added that the loss of defender Brayford will be more keenly felt than that of midfielder Bailey when he delves into the transfer market himself in the summer.

"It means we'll be searching for more defenders," he said. "John was our best defender, so he'll be a big hole to fill.

"James will be easier to replace, which doesn't take anything away from his ability, but we've got people who can play there, and it's easier to find central midfield players than central defenders."

Meanwhile, Crewe have confirmed that Leicester defender Harry Worley and Plymouth midfielder Simon Walton will not be returning to the club.

The pair spent much of last season on loan at the Alexandra Stadium.

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