Eoin Jess admits Alex Smith was his mentor in Scotland - but has played down speculation the pair could be linking up again at Dundee United.

City's top-scorer Jess has been thrown into the equation in the move to tie on-loan keeper Alan Combe

permanently to Valley Parade.

Tannadice boss Smith has confirmed that he would love to take Jess back north of the border after they worked together at Aberdeen.

But Jess, preparing for the final game of the season at Walsall tomorrow, said: "I know Alex Smith well from Aberdeen. He was my mentor so I'm always going to be linked with him, especially with Alan Combe coming from Dundee United and doing ever so well.

"But I'm a Bradford player and I've got two years to go on my contract. As long as the manager wants me here, I'm going to be here.

"I've had this sort of thing all through my career and basically it's water off a duck's back.

"It's been speculated for the last few weeks but you get that in football and learn to handle it as best you can. You just ignore it until maybe there's an element of truth."

The wage demands of Jess present the biggest obstacle for a swap deal which could include another Dundee United player, possibly former Bolton defender Hasney Aljofree.

But Jess understands why City are so keen to lure Combe on a permanent basis.

He said: "Alan has been exceptional since he's come down here.

"The fans have taken to him, he's put in some good performances and everyone would love him to stay, the supporters and players as well."

Nicky Law said: "I certainly hope tomorrow isn't Alan's last game for us. Negotiations have been going on for the last couple of weeks and they are getting more serious.

"I've not spoken to Dundee United about Jess but anything is a bargaining tool. If anyone comes in and it's right for the club and the player then it's a goer."