Gateshead have rejected a bid from MK Dons for defender Ed Francis ahead of the January transfer window, according to a report from Football Insider.
The 24-year-old has been identified as a January target by former Gateshead manager Mike Williamson at MK Dons but the League Two side will have to do more to persuade the National League side to allow him to depart.
Francis has made 23 league appearances for Gateshead so far this season, scoring three goals in the process and has continued to impress under the caretaker management of Rob Elliott after Williamson left for MK Dons.
The versatile defender began his career with Manchester City at youth level, before having spells with Wolves, Notts County and Harrogate Town before joining Gateshead in March on loan, on a deal which turned permanent in the summer.
Gateshead currently sit fifth in the National League standing’s, nine points outside of the top three. The club are currently unbeaten in their last two games and travel to York City on New Year’s Day in the hope of building on their 1-1 draw against the club on Boxing Day.
Meanwhile, MK Dons have won four matches on the bounce in all competitions, keeping three clean sheets and have climbed back up to sixth in the League Two standings, seven points outside of the automatic promotion places.
According to Football Insider, MK Dons have submitted a six-figure bid for the 24-year-old which has been turned down, but it is unclear as to whether it’s been rejected due to the valuation of the bid or because Gateshead have zero interest in selling.
Writer’s View
Francis has been a brilliant addition for Gateshead since his initial arrival in March and played a crucial role in the club’s great escape last season and has since continued to build on his performances.
It is no surprise to see Mike Williamson eager to re-sign his former players but they’ll have to try even harder if they want to land Francis in January.