Doncaster chairman John Ryan has confirmed clubs interested in Billy Sharp will be able to sign the striker for £3million in January.
Rovers chairman hoping to fend off interest in striker
Doncaster Rovers chairman John Ryan has confirmed clubs interested in Billy Sharp will be able to sign the striker for £3million in January.
Sharp's brace in Saturday's 2-1 victory over Leicester City took his tally to nine goals in 15 Championship appearances this season and he has a string of admirers.
Southampton and Ipswich Town have both previously failed with bids for the 25-year-old and are expected to return with fresh offers next month.
Ryan is unsure whether Rovers can keep Sharp at the Keepmoat Stadium and has outlined what it will cost any clubs trying to prise the club's top scorer away.
Idle chatter
"I don't know whether we can keep Billy here," said Ryan. "There has been a lot of loose talk and idle chatter surrounding the lad, so I want to set the record straight once and for all.
"When the window opens on January 1, Billy's contract with Doncaster Rovers will include a release clause priced at exactly £3m.
"Lots of clubs are circling. Southampton and Ipswich made previous bids. Anybody who matches that new figure can talk to Billy.
"Obviously, we don't want to lose the lad at this vital stage when we are fighting to retain our Championship status.
"I've given my word to Billy, though. We have a gentlemen's agreement and any final decision on a move is down to Billy himself."
