‘Anywhere near’ - Bristol Rovers deadline day bid for Jonson Clarke-Harris rejected

Darragh MacAnthony has confirmed that Peterborough United have rejected bids today for Jonson Clarke-Harris.

Bristol Rovers are said to be interested in the 29-year-old, and the Posh chairman revealed that Gas co-owner Wael al-Qadi had been in contact with him throughout deadline day.

Clarke-Harris is seen as the final piece of the jigsaw of Joey Barton’s team, having signed 12 new players this summer. He is proven at this level, having scored 27 goals in 48 games last season, which earned him the Golden Boot in League One.

The one-time Jamaica international could be set to remain at London Road however, which would be a major disappointment to Gas fans. He has been transfer listed by Peterborough, but the club are in no rush to sell him given no offer has met their valuation yet.

“It’s stressful to be fair,” said MacAnthony who was appearing on Sky Sports News, having revealed he had rejected a few offers.

“It’s crazy, I’m getting a FaceTime call, I said I’d say hello to Wael the owner of Bristol Rovers. He’s face-timing me non-stop. It’s just everyday is non-stop.

“Today you’re coming into a frenzy. I’ve got you guys on in the background and I see the various deals happening.

“I’m not gonna lie, the heart tightens with 24-hours to go when things are happening or not happening. It’s something you can’t imagine when you’re inside the battle.”

Earlier today, Peterborough Telegraph claimed that Posh’s valuation of Clarke-Harris stood at £1m, which is just under what they paid for him back in 2019. Earlier today, Ian Evatt revealed Bolton had been put off by the asking price set on the forward.

Meanwhile, Peterborough have green lighted the departure of striker Kabongo Tshimanga, who has joined Fleetwood Town on a season-long loan. He joined in January but failed to score a goal, and that leaves Peterborough with one less option up-front.

When asked about any existing deals, MacAnthony said: “There’s obviously a couple of our players who are in demand today. The normal suspects and there’s been bids coming in today for them.

“The bids weren’t anywhere near what I want. As of right now, those players won’t be leaving. My favourite word today has been no, it’s been one of those days.

“We’re okay ending the window with both of those players in the squad.”