Jon Mellish, who joined Carlisle United in 2019 from Gateshead has enjoyed a prosperous spell during his time at the club. Since signing, he has been an ever present for his side, providing more than 40 appearances in every full campaign he’s been with the club.
During his first full season, the newfound attacking threat showed his lethal touch in front of goal netting 11 goals from 44 appearances. Also appearing in all 51 games played during the 2023/2024 campaign, a tremendous effort.
Now according to manager Paul Simpson, the club have rejected a transfer offer for the player, stating their intention to keep the player at the club.
What’s Been Said?
Carlisle manager Paul Simpson spoke to the News and Star regarding the interest.
“There was interest early on in the summer,”
“It’s gone away because there’s nothing happening.
“Jon Mellish isn’t going anywhere. We don’t need to sell players – we’re in a really good position.
“Jon knows that he is a massive part of what we want to do – so that [interest] has gone and it’s finished.”
“There was a bid, but it was nowhere near even considering and it was dismissed by everybody immediately.
“So, that was the end of it.”
Why do clubs want Jon Mellish?
Whilst being one of the standouts in an otherwise uninspiring Carlisle side, Mellish showed his abilities and more importantly his versatility to play wherever needed. Having experience at being both a defender and also comfortable in the attack, not enough can be said for the usefulness this brings to any side.
A testament to his professionalism, any side would be happy to have such a player within their ranks after his development from a raw prospect into the defensive pillar he is today.
Firm but fair Carlisle
As we’ve seen in recent years, clubs will not be deterred in their pursuit of players, especially when they are as good as Jon Mellish. So how much should the side from Cumbria expect in their negotiations?
Well fan reaction would suggest a hefty sum around and above the £500k mark would be suitable as the player still has two years remaining on his deal and is crucial to his team’s success.
Should they succeed in garnering a large sum for their star asset, enrolling in a similar process will take place to recruit more uncut gems in the non-league market. Hoping to bounce back up, fans of Carlisle will no doubt be hoping Mellish stays but as for now, the future is unclear with more offers sure to follow.