Stuart McCall's ambitious bid to bring back Kelly Youga has been foiled.

Charlton are willing to once again loan out the talented African defender, who proved a big hit in his 11 games for City last season.

But Youga has told McCall that he will not play in League Two.

McCall said: "It's a pity because Kelly did well here and we did pursue it but he doesn't want to drop down to the bottom level and I can understand that.

"I got a call from Phil Parkinson (Charlton assistant manager) and then gave Kelly a ring but his agent said he'd had offers from other clubs in the Championship and League One.

"It might have been different if he had been signing for three years but when you're just going out on loan you want to play at the highest level you can."

McCall also inquired with Derby about Lee Holmes, another loan player to impress in a Bantams shirt, but like Huddersfield, he pulled out of the running because of the left-winger's wages.

Derby's promotion to the Premiership triggered a raise in Holmes's pay packet, even though he did not kick a ball for them last season.

McCall added: "As I've said, I am aiming high and trying to get in quality players. You've got to be realistic but if you don't ask, you don't get.

"That was the case with Peter Thorne. I went in for him not really thinking he would come but hoping we might be able to persuade him and that's what happened."

Michael Flynn and John Hills, who have just joined Championship new boys Blackpool, were also on McCall's list. But he has ruled out a return for Frenchman Xavier Barrau.

"He's hawking himself about for more money than he was on here before so that's a no-go."

Barnsley duo Nathan Joynes and Thomas Harban will get longer to prove themselves.

McCall is mulling over whether to take the two 21-year-olds on loan and Barnsley boss Simon Davey will not be pressing him for a decision.

"Simon's told me we can keep them as long as we want for now," said the City chief. "They are both doing well in training but I need to see them in games.

"It's nice not to be rushed because it means we'll be able to have a look when the friendlies start. Our first game at Harrogate is only nine days away and we'll be able to get a better picture after that."

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