By Edward Chaykovsky

According to head trainer David Coldwell, heavyweight contender David Price (21-3, 18KOs) would be more than willing to replace Wladimir Klitschko and take on IBF world champion Anthony Joshua (17-0, 17KOs) on December 10 at the Manchester Arena.

It seemed that Klitschko was all but set to face Joshua on the December date, but their negotiations hit a brick wall on Monday, when Klitschko refused to finalize the deal unless the WBA sanctioned the fight for their vacant world title.

The WBA, IBO, WBO titles became vacant two weeks ago when Tyson Fury dropped his belts to focus on getting treatment for his mental health issues.

The situation with Klitschko has forced Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Sport, to begin immediate maneuvers to secure a backup opponent - as there is word that Klitschko might face Lucas Browne for the vacant WBA title on December 10 in Germany. One of the names being mentioned for Joshua is Kubrat Pulev.

Price is already expected to land an undercard slot on Joshua's December event - so an offer to go for the world title in the headline fight would be an opportunity that Price would not allow to pass, says Coldwell.

"Nothing's been mentioned to us about a fight with AJ, and it's gone a bit quiet because of probably what is going on but maybe Eddie Hearn has got someone as a back-up," Coldwell told Sky Sports.

"But I've said all along, if he comes knocking then of course Pricey would take the opportunity. I've said before if something comes along and landed in his lap, like fighting AJ, yes, we'd take it.

"You can't turn down opportunities like world titles - as long as the terms are right. However if it's not then you have to build towards something. Therefore I want him active, get him out again as quickly as possible."