Town manager Paul Lambert says a Premier League club would have to pay “a helluva lot of money” to land midfielder Andre Dozzell. TWTD revealed yesterday that a number of top flight sides, most notably local rivals Norwich City, are keen on the 20-year-old.
Asked about that interest, Lambert said: "Dozzell's playing really well at the minute. I've not heard anything about that but if a Premier League club comes knocking then they would have to spend a helluva lot of money.
"He's a really good footballer, the lad, he really is. He's really technical, really good footballer. A lovely left foot, and he's still learning the game, still developing into the game. But a really technical, very good footballer.”
As previously reported, the Canaries, Brighton and Crystal Palace are all interested in Dozzell with the Blues having received a number of enquiries this summer, while AFC Bournemouth are also believed to be monitoring his situation.
Town have opened discussions with academy product Dozzell, who came on as a sub at Notts County this evening, regarding a new contract in order to keep him at Portman Road. The former Copleston High School pupil is contracted until next summer with the club having an option for a further season.
Town are believed to value the England U19 international at around the £5 million mark, while it’s likely the interested Premier League clubs would be looking to do a deal with less cash up front, perhaps nearer to £3 million, with further top-ups based on senior appearances or other milestones as his career progresses.