Chairman Geoffrey Richmond has revealed that Bradford City have had "certain offers" turned down this week as the hunt for new players at Valley Parade is stepped up.

Manager Paul Jewell reacted to last weekend's 2-0 defeat at Sheffield Wednesday by saying he was looking to make new signings.

The City boss has targeted specific players - without revealing any names - but has been unsuccessful so far in his bid to strengthen his squad before Saturday's crucial clash with Watford.

City have been linked with a host of names including Huddersfield striker Marcus Stewart, Brentford's Lloyd Owusu and Jason Roberts of Bristol Rovers.

Richmond too is remaining tight-lipped on any potential targets.

He said: "It has always been this club's policy not to comment on any possible signings until a deal is done. That has not changed.

"We are burning the midnight oil at the moment but I would urge fans not to believe everything they believe in the national newspapers.

"We have had certain offers refused and at the moment there does not appear to be any imminent signing.

"But it is a little bit like the weather, everything can change very quickly."

City have been linked with Roberts and Stewart since the summer with reports claiming that the Huddersfield striker would cost around £2.5 million.

But Terriers boss Steve Bruce said: "We have had speculation about Marcus Stewart all season and we are getting used to it. I have heard nothing and all this does is unsettle someone."

City face Watford this weekend in a match that they must win to bounce back from the Hillsborough defeat.

City are four points ahead of the Hornets in the league table and a win for Jewell's men would bring them level with Southampton on points - if the south coast club lose at home to Everton.

Richmond said: "We are trying very hard in the transfer market but if we are not successful this week we have a full two-week break which would be extremely good timing for us.

"The market is difficult but we are not going to panic. When we buy, it will be the right one."

lAs reported in later editions of yesterday's Telegraph & Argus, Isaiah Rankin has joined Birmingham City on a month's loan.

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