Bristol City are “really happy” they kept Zak Vyner this summer says chief executive Tom Rawcliffe, after rejecting an offer for the defender from Wrexham.
The newly-promoted Championship side made an offer for the 28-year-old towards the end of the window but it was turned down.
Vyner has been at the club since the age of 10 and is in the final year of his contract, which opens up the risk of losing him on a free transfer next summer.
“We’re really happy we managed to keep Zak Vyner. Wrexham were in for him and I can understand the appeal of Wrexham and Hollywood money and everything else and the excitement,” Rawcliffe told BBC Radio Bristol’s Sound of the City.
“I think it shows the commitment to keeping the core of our squad which did so well last season, having that backing of the ownership that we don’t have to accept any bid that comes in.
“Zak Vyner is a really integral part of our team and, as a man, is exactly the sort of person you want in that changing room and representing Bristol City.”
Rawcliffe, who was made chief executive in July having previously been chief operating officer and chief financial officer, hopes talks can now move towards a new contract for the defender.
Similarly, goalkeeper Max O’Leary, winger Mark Sykes and attacking midfielder Anis Mehmeti are also all out of contract next summer.
“The conversations are important and they will be happening,” Rawcliffe added.