Bolton Wanderers manager Owen Coyle insists defender Gary Cahill will not be allowed to leave the Reebok Stadium for less than £20m.
Cahill has been in fine form for Wanderers this season, forcing his way into the England squad, and Coyle admits the 25-year-old has gained the interest of some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
But the Scot insists it will take a huge fee to tempt him to part with his most prized asset.
Coyle told Sky Sports News: “I saw speculation about Gary Cahill and I can sit here very comfortably knowing we have had no dialogue about him or any of our players, and long may that continue.
“I think it is important we keep this group together and try and add one or two.
“I don't fear bids for Gary or any other player. Could it happen? Yes, because they are quality players.
“But when they move for £20m, £25m or £30m, which is what it takes to buy them, they would be better moving in the summer as they need a pre-season as if they move in January they are under too much pressure to make an immediate impact.”
Meanwhile, Coyle has refused to confirm rumours he is interested in a loan move for Arsenal forward Carlos Vela.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is open to letting Vela leave the club on a temporary basis, and Bolton has been mentioned as a possible destination following Jack Wilshere’s successful stint at the Reebok Stadium.
But Coyle said: “I think Arsene said at the weekend he could go on loan and people have looked and put two and two together.
“We have a good relationship with Arsenal, obviously with Jack Wilshere last year and hopefully we played a small part in his development, and there is no doubting Carlos Vela is a wonderful player.”