Bristol City boss Nigel Pearson has hinted there is interest in Nahki Wells amid links with Cardiff City and Swansea City - but added he'd be loath to help strengthen a league rival.
Rumours circulated on Saturday that both Welsh clubs were keen on a loan move for the Robins striker, with Cardiff boss Steve Morison and Swansea head coach Russell Martin in the market for more goalpower before Monday's 11pm deadline.
Pearson said following their 2-2 draw with Preston North End on Saturday that he'd be open for further, last-minute business at Ashton Gate but revealed he'd be reluctant to help any competitor out by lending them their players.
“We’re not in a position to do business in terms of spending,” Pearson said.
“So today it was a real bonus to have both Timm [Klose] and Robbie [Cundy] out there. They are new signings.
“Whether we have departures, I couldn’t tell you, but if a departure happened, would it spark some last-minute business? It depends on whether we can get, if that did happen, the player that we want. I’m not bringing also-rans and journeymen in who are just going to fill number space up.
“I’d rather give some of the kids a bit more leeway.”
Addressing the Wells speculation specifically, Pearson added: “Maybe there is [interest], but why would we help them? I’ve got no intention of helping anybody.”
Wells has made just one start since November, with the 31-year-old making 20 league appearances in total this term, with only five of those having been starts. He has scored just once.
Cardiff are set to sign striker Jordan Hugill on loan following the capture of Stoke City's Alfie Doughty, while Swansea coach Martin remains keen on another attacking player with the Jamie Paterson saga still showing no sign of resolution.
The Bluebirds' interest in Wells is likely to hinge on Kieffer Moore's future in the capital, who has been linked with Bournemouth.
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