Latics reject Cattermole bid

Black Cats rebuffed in move for midfielder

Last updated: 11th July 2009  

Latics reject Cattermole bid

Cattermole: Bid rejected

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Wigan have confirmed they have rejected a bid from Sunderland for midfielder Lee Cattermole.

Sunderland made an undisclosed bid for Cattermole earlier on Friday as Black Cats boss Steve Bruce looks to be reunited with the player.

Bruce is a big fan of Cattermole, having last summer paid just £3.5million for a player who went on to become an integral part of his Wigan team.

Wigan chief Roberto Martinez insists the England Under 21 international is not for sale as he wants to build his side around him.

"Lee is not for sale. End of story," Martinez told the club's official website.

"He is a fantastic player, a leader on and off the field, and he is central to our plans going forwards. We are not interested in selling him which is why this offer was rejected immediately.

"It is not usually our style to discuss incoming or outgoing transfers until they are completed, but we have made an exception in this case because I feel so strongly about wanting to keep hold of Lee, along with all my best players.

"He is currently on a well-earned break after his efforts with the 21s in the summer and will be reporting back to training next week. I am looking forward to working with him. He is one of many talented players we have here and I intend to keep hold of all of our best players."

It remains to be seen if Bruce will come back with a new improved offer for Cattermole to try and tempt Wigan into doing business for the former Middlesbrough youngster.