Birmingham City vice-chairman Peter Pannu says Manchester City have
rejected their bid to sign Joe Hart but agreed to loan him again
next term.
Hart has impressed during his time with Birmingham and has
been a key factor in the club residing in the top half of the
Premier League table following last season's promotion.
His displays have also prompted talk of a call-up to the
England World Cup squad and Alex McLeish has expressed a desire to
keep hold of the goalkeeper for next season.
Pannu has confirmed that Birmingham did make an enquiry about
the possibility of signing the 22-year-old permanently, but that
was quickly rejected.
However, Pannu claims the Champions League chasers are
willing to let Hart spend a second campaign on loan in the
Midlands.
"What has happened is that we have actually approached
Manchester City with a view to buying him," Pannu told a fans'
forum.
"But the difficulty is that we have recognised him as a
fabulous goalie and Manchester City recognise that as well.
"So they very politely rejected our approach to them to
purchase him. They have said they will let him stay here for
another season on loan, but he is not for sale."
Pannu continued: "They appreciate the way Alex has built him
up, he has got a very strong reputation in England. They appreciate
that and will give us priority on the loan deal.
"He will be with us for another season, unless anything
changes. That is the position."
