Birmingham City have reportedly had a £2.75m offer for Polish goalkeeper Bartosz Bialkowski rejected by Championship rivals Ipswich Town.
The 31-year-old, who is due to be late back for pre-season after being involved in the World Cup with Poland, is under contract with the Tractor Boys for another 12 months.
Despite the risk of losing their three-in-a-row Player of the Year on a free next summer, with talks over a new deal being put on hold, the Ipswich Star claims that Brum failed in their attempt to poach Bialkowski on the cheap.
Ipswich are said to be hopeful of agreeing fresh terms with the former Southampton and Notts County stopper, although other teams may test their resolve before the transfer window closes.
Birmingham are not expected to return with another offer and will instead turn their attention elsewhere, with David Stockdale being made available to purchase just a year after joining.