Nigel Pearson provides transfer update on out-of-contract Bristol City star Tomas Kalas

Nigel Pearson admits he has no problems with Tomas Kalas exploring transfer options outside of Bristol City, as he waits his decision.

The 30-year-old has been offered a new contract by the Robins, but is exploring his options with his current deal up at the end of the month. Kalas is City’s club record signing and joined from Chelsea permanently in 2019, but is attracting transfer interest from a range of clubs.

Kalas endured a difficult season having missed the majority of the campaign through a groin injury. He made just nine appearances with only three starts, and which is far from when his 44-game campaign 2020/21.

The Czech Republic international now has competition for a starting berth next season following the arrival of Rob Dickie from QPR. Dickie has arrived along with Ross McCrorie who can also play in the role.

In an interview with the club, Pearson said: “Tomas with those types of situations, he will do what I think most players will do when you’re in the situation that he has been in.

“In terms of what we have offered him, and he’ll be seeing what else is out there too which is fine. I have a very open mind on these things.

“It’s just what it is. I have a straight forward perspective on this and the biggest thing for us, we continue to develop the team because the team is the most important.

“Individuals play their role, but no individual is more important than the team.”

Jay Dasilva was offered a new contract in January but opted to depart Ashton Gate this summer. He joined Coventry City - who he was linked with earlier this year, and reunites with former City midfielder Kasey Palmer.

As for his replacement, City are in the market for a new left-back, and have been in discussions with Haydon Roberts about a move to the West Country. Roberts is free to speak to clubs after his release from Brighton, and according to BristolLive has already met at the HPC to speak to Pearson about a move.

Pearson added: “The players who have left as well. People like Jay, I think Jay’s contribution to the club has been quite remarkable.

“He’s in the situation that Tomas finds himself in. It’s inevitable that players will exercise their ability to look elsewhere. We wish people like Jay every success in their future.

“He’s been in my time a good performer, and very reliable too.

“When players time come to an end at the club, sometimes they get released and there’s a relief you can move players on, sometimes it’s a situation where you have mixed feelings about it because there’s been an enjoyment side and a respect for how you’ve worked with players.”