Bristol City in line for windfall as news is awaited on Everton and Leeds United transfer target

Bristol City could be in line for an unexpected windfall as one of their former stars attracts interest from several Premier League clubs.

Former Robins midfielder Josh Brownhill made over 150 appearances during a four-year stay at Ashton Gate before departing for Burnley in a £9million deal in January 2020.

Speaking at the time, Robins chief executive officer Mark Ashton told the club website: “Josh goes with our blessing.

“He is at an exciting point in his career and we recognise both his ambition and the value that we will receive for Josh that can be invested in Bristol City.”

Brownhill has impressed during his time with Burnley and was a rare positive during last season as the Clarets were relegated from the Premier League.

The Warrington-born star scored twice and provided three assists for his team-mates as he made 35 league appearances and his defensive work in the heart of the Burnley midfielder ranked above many of his Premier League counterparts.

His form has captured the attention of a number of top-tier sides with the likes of Southampton, Everton, Leeds United and West Ham United all said to have shown an interest in the 26-year-old over the last 12 months.

That could hand an unexpected boost to Bristol City’s coffers after the Robins inserted a 20% sell-on clause into the deal that took him to Burnley two and a half years ago.

Brownhill addressed his future earlier this year, saying: “When you start to do well, you get recognition for it.

“There’s a lot of people who will talk, but you tend to not listen to them.

“I’m here at Burnley and my main goal is to do well here and to keep the club in the Premier League. Then it’s onto next season and to progress even more.

“Whatever people talk about, it’s not for me to listen. It’s up to me to crack on with my work and to work hard here.”

There is no indication over whether his outlook has changed in the aftermath of relegation - but speculation over a move back into the top tier has his former club watching on with interest.