Middlesex have lured promising young Surrey batsman Ben Geddes to Lord’s with the promise of more first-team action in a coup for the cash-strapped county.

Epsom-born Geddes, 23, has struggled for game time at Surrey, playing just two Championship matches this year, and will leave the three-time champions in the close season for Middlesex. Terms are expected to be finalised this week.

Middlesex have released the former England opener Mark Stoneman, who is seeking a county, and are likely to play a second season without an overseas player because of their financial difficulties. Their key seamer, Ethan Bamber, has opted to leave the club, too.

However, they have also found space in their budget for Geddes, who is known to head coach Richard Johnson because he was once Surrey’s bowling coach.

For the last year, Middlesex – who missed out on promotion to Division One – have effectively been placed in special measures by the England and Wales Cricket Board for breaches of financial regulations. As a result, their financial activity – including player transfers – is closely monitored by the ECB.

Another player leaving Surrey in search of more game time is Conor McKerr, the fast bowler who has regularly been out on loan. He will join Nottinghamshire. McKerr did play a part in Surrey’s title win, taking six wickets in a key September victory over Lancashire.

“While I am disappointed to see the pair leave Surrey and move to other counties, at the same time, having talked to both about it on numerous occasions, I fully understand and respect their decisions,” said Alec Stewart, who is stepping down as director of cricket

“Both believe moving elsewhere would bring more playing opportunities and help further their cricket career, and we wish them well and thank the pair for their contributions over the years.”