Barnsley have today moved quickly to dismiss rumours that midfielder Jacob Mellis could be set for a £600,000 switch to Premier League new boys Crystal Palace.
The 22 year old former Sheffield United and Chelsea man was an integral player for The Reds last season, scoring six times in 41 appearances, including crucial efforts in victories over Wolves and Hull in 2013.
This has led to strong suggestions that Palace boss Ian Holloway may try and tempt the former England Under 16, Under 17 and Under 19 international back to London with top-flight football.
A spokesman for Barnsley Football club quashed those suggestions today stating:
“The club have not received any bids for Jacob Mellis.
“Nor do we want to sell a player who is an integral part of the squad and David Flitcroft’s plans for this season.”
What will worry the Oakwell faithful however is that Mellis is entering the final year of his contract, but due to his age, Barnsley would be due a tribunal fee if he departed next summer. However this is likely to be less than the £600,000 Palace are believed to be willing to pay now.