Premier League strugglers Aston Villa have had a £2.5million bid for Charlie Adam rejected by Blackpool, according to reports.
The Scotland international has made the step up into the top flight with consummate ease this season, having shone for the Seasiders as they secured promotion into the big time last term.
He has netted four goals in all competitions, including three in the top flight, as Blackpool have held their own among England's elite.
Their success has seen a number of their stars fall under the microscope, with Adam considered to be the ace in Ian Holloway's pack.
The Seasiders boss admitted over the weekend that he would not be averse to cashing in on Adam, but has made it clear that the price must be right.
Villa's approach would appear to fall some way short of the valuation Blackpool have placed on a player they snapped up for £500,000 from Rangers in August 2009.
It remains to be seen whether Gerard Houllier will return with an improved bid, but the Villans are not the only side chasing the 25-year-old midfielder.
Villa's local rivals Birmingham are also believed to be in the running, although a proposed £2million offer from the Blues will be given short shrift by Blackpool.
