Leeds and West Ham continue to be linked with Blues youngster Elkan Baggott with claims that the Indonesia U19 international could be available for between £150,000 and £300,000 in compensation during the January transfer window.

Last week it was reported that the two Premier League clubs are eyeing Baggott after the centre-half turned down the offer of a professional contract with the Blues.

Now, according to Football Insider, who behind the previous story, the Whites and Hammers have held preliminary talks regarding Baggott who they have been told will cost between £150,000 and £300,000.

However, TWTD understands Baggott has not turned down Town’s contract offer, although has asked for time to consider the deal.

The 6ft 4in tall defender is currently a second-year scholar with an agreement for a third year in the academy already in place and Town are confident he will ultimately put pen to paper on pro terms. It also seems unlikely that the Blues would have named a price in the manner suggested.

The Thailand-born defender made his first-team debut in the Papa John’s Trophy tie at home to Gillingham earlier this season and travelled with the senior squad for the League One fixture at Plymouth last month.

Baggott has been one of the top performers for the Blues' U18s who have reached the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup this season.

Last week, former Blues striker Darren Bent said he had been impressed with what he has seen of Baggott.

Photo: Matchday Images

Bert added 10:02 - Jan 13 @LWNR2013 I don't think that is a true comparison but I get the principle. Apprentices very rarely get more than the basic minimum wage and many are actually partly paid by Government schemes whereas Baggott has received a handsome wage for his age and has not yet learned his trade. Everyone should have ambition but there should be room for loyalty in the early years. The problem lies within the football authorities who allow this to happen.

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LWNR2013 added 11:58 - Jan 13 @Bert I don't disagree with you at all. But the football ‘industry' has been like this since the emergence of the big media money. The only way it can change for ITFC is to become an attraction rather than a vehicle and that won't happen until we start on an upwards trajectory.
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Marinersnose added 15:40 - Jan 13 Elkan iI would suggest you speak to Charlie Brown and listen to what he has to say rather than a money motivated agent who is not concerned about your development.
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BrandonsBlues added 20:08 - Jan 13 Saxon blue this might be part of your answer of one that went to Chelsea https://www.ipswichstar.co.uk/sport/ipswich-town/ex-town-youth-striker-joins-mk- Now at MK Dons
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