Doncaster Rovers manager Darren Moore told Doncaster Free Press how his side have turned down an offer for reported Derby County and Blackburn Rovers target Ben Whiteman.
The Donny midfielder has attracted plenty of interest.
A report by Football Insider last January claimed Derby, Blackburn and Barnsley were keen, while Hull City saw a previous bid in the summer of 2019 knocked back.
Now, the Doncaster Free Press claim Queens Park Rangers and Preston North End have joined the long list of suitors with the latter having a recent bid turned down.
Speaking to reporters, manager Darren Moore confirmed the Preston offer.
“Preston have made an offer and the offer has been rejected from the club and there’s not much more to really say about it. At the moment he’s part of the group.”
Whiteman is one of the best players in League One. Last season, he topped the passing charts in League One with an average of 63.9 per league encounter.
This season, the 24-year-old has five goals and four assists in 18 starts.
Whiteman is predominantly a holding midfielder. He spoke of his desire to play Championship football earlier this season, and January provides him with an opportunity.
Lancashire rivals Preston and Blackburn will both target a late run to the playoffs. The Lilywhites and Rovers are level on points (32), and five short of Watford in sixth.
Derby, meanwhile, are still in the Championship relegation zone after losing last time out.
The Rams, however, have improved under interim manager Wayne Rooney. With a striker and winger addition this month they should move out of trouble.
The midfield area, on the other hand, is arguably the club’s strongest right now as Krystian Bielik, Graeme Shinnie and Jason Knight form an energetic and exciting trio.
Also see: Report: Derby joined by Swansea in race to sign top-flight ace after failing with another target
Also see: ‘Not to Derby’: Some Leeds fans implore club to reject Rams wish to sign player