BIRMINGHAM City boss Trevor Francis has labelled Burnley's bid for striker Dele Adebola as a "cheeky offer."

The Clarets have offered £700,000 for Adebola as Burnley boss Stan Ternent looks to build from a position of strength and keep his side around the top six.

However, Francis rejected the bid for the player he named in his starting line-up for Saturday's win over Huddersfield Town.

"We had an offer of £700,000 for Dele Adebola. I thought it was a bit of a cheeky offer considering his current form. It wasn't accepted," he said.

However, according to sources in Birmingham, Burnley were willing to tie in a further payment should they get promoted.

And the Clarets could get their man for £1.1 million up front if Ternent opts to pursue the 25-year-old striker, who has scored six times so far this season.

Ternent today maintained his stance of not commenting on unfinished transfer business but remains interested in improving his squad and Adebola, who would become the Clarets new record signing if they are willing to match City's valuation, is clearly a player he rates highly.

Meanwhile, Michael Appleton's dismissal at West Brom on Saturday means that the Preston midfielder will miss the game against Burnley at Deepdale on Saturday, December 9.