City told to double their money for Bell

[Chase]

Norwich City have been told to double their money if they want to sign Luton midfielder David Bell - or face losing one of their big summer targets to a Championship rival.

“Looking at the offers on the table at the moment, Norwich were not even at 50pc of what we are looking at from the other bidders,” said Stephen Browne, director of the LTFC20202 consortium bidding to take control at Kenilworth Road.

Luton says they have heard nothing from City since turning down a bid for the 24-year-old midfielder last week - and that could mean the chase is over.

“Norwich made an offer which fell quite some way short of our valuation,” added Browne.

“It was a long, long way short. We have a valuation and I don't think it is unrealistic.

“We went back to their chief executive and said 'no thanks, but if you want to put in a revised bid we will listen'. No one has come back so as far as we are concerned that is the end of the matter.

“As far as David being linked with Norwich, the ball is in their court.”

Luton also rejected a bid from Coventry which, said Browne, was similar to Norwich's.

However, there are two other clubs very much in the frame for Bell's services - even though Luton insist they don't have to sell one of their prized assets.

“We are not a million miles away with either club and we are confident we are being realistic,” Browne added. “One if from the Premier League one from the Championship and if you go by the size of the crowds they get then you'd say one was about the same size as Norwich and the other one was bigger.

“One club in particular would be a very good move for David, but we are not in a position where we have to sell him.

“It is very tempting to look at Luton and think because we are in administration we need the cash, but the reality is different; we are very close to exiting administration.

“David has another two years to go on his contract and, having spoken to him only yesterday, I know he is looking forward to coming back in the new season and is committed to the club.

“If someone comes in and it's a good career move then we as a club wouldn't stand in his way.”