Preston North End are reported to have turned down a seven-figure Town bid for striker Jordan Hugill.
According to the Lancashire Evening Post, the Blues offered around £1.5 million for the 24-year-old, who has established himself as a regular with the Lilywhites this season.
Preston are said to be keen to hold on to the Middlesbrough-born frontman they bought from Port Vale in June 2014 for £25,000 youth compensation but may be tempted by a higher offer. Hugill signed a contract which runs until the summer of 2019 earlier in the season.
Rumours linking the Blues with a move for Hugill have been circulating on the TWTD Forum for the last week.
Prior to his spell with the Valiants, who would receive a percentage of the fee should Preston sell, 6ft tall Hugill played in non-league with Seaham Red Star, Consett, Whitby Town and Marske United.
While with Vale Hugill spent time on loan with Gateshead, then following his move to Deepdale had stints with Tranmere and Hartlepool during the 2014/15 season.
Hugill has scored 13 goals in 28 starts and 37 sub appearances for the Lilywhites, including six so far this season.