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World number one Rory McIlroy hit a bogey-free five-under-par second-round 67 to move within three shots of the lead at the Wells Fargo Championship.

McIlroy, 26, moved to seven under and trails American joint leaders Webb Simpson (67) and Robert Streb (69).

"It's a real solid score, it sets me up well for the weekend," said McIlroy, who is level with Phil Mickelson (66).

"I'm going to be in one of the final groups and it should make for an exciting weekend."

Mickelson, who finished runner-up to McIlroy at Quail Hollow in 2010, was one of only two men to to better the Northern Irishman's 67 on Friday, along with American Steve Wheatcroft.

"I played really well," said Mickelson. "I'd been turning 66s into 71s like yesterday and today it was nice to make such a good score."

McIlroy is seeking his second PGA Tour win in May, after claiming the WGC Match Play Championship, as he prepares for the US Open at Chambers Bay on 18 June.

Starting on the ninth, he had three birdies in his opening nine holes, while two further birdies after the turn kept him in touch with overnight leader Streb, who added a round of 69 to his opening day 65.

Simpson birdied three of the last four holes to join his compatriot on 10 under.

Americans Martin Flores (67) and Patrick Rodgers (68) are third on eight under, while Scotland's Russell Knox (69) is in a group on six under.