Bristol City manager Liam Manning has issued an update on Mark Sykes as Stoke City are said to have seen a transfer bid for the player rejected.

The 27-year-old winger is out of contract in the summer but it is understood talks over an extension are taking place. Hoping to secure the Republic of Ireland international's services, the Potters have taken an interest.

Sky Sports initially reported Stoke had launched a bid to prise him away from Ashton Gate this January. Though Bristol Live has since confirmed an offer was outright rejected.

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Talking to the media, the Robins' head coach said: "There's been a little bit of interest yeah, I sat with Syksey yesterday and again today and I think it's one of those. He's really happy here, he's enjoying it.

"I think he's really hit a level recently with us, I know before the injury and since coming back he's done extremely well. I had a good chat with Syksey, for me I don't see him going anywhere.

"Those conversations [around his extension] are ongoing at the minute."

Sykes has become a fan favourite since joining Bristol City from Oxford United in 2022. He has proven quite a versatile option this season, playing on the left or right of a midfield, making 15 league appearances with two assists.

If Mark Robins gets his man, he will join left-back Josh Wilson-Esbrand, on loan from Manchester City, and striker Ali Al-Hamadi, on loan from Ipswich Town, in joining Stoke during the ongoing winter transfer window. While Nathan Lowe and Lewis Baker have been recalled to the bet365 Stadium from loans to Walsall and Blackburn Rovers respectively.

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