In light of interest in Mark McGuinness of Cardiff City, Luton Town manager Rob Edwards has stated that his team will not pay “millions over the odds” for players, preferring to complete transactions swiftly.
The newly relegated Premier League squad is reportedly interested in the Bluebirds center-back. Erol Bulut confirmed yesterday that the negotiations about McGuinness’s possible departure have been ongoing for more than ten days.
Prior to Luton’s Championship debut, a 4-1 loss to Burnley earlier this week, Edwards revealed the Hatters’ transfer intentions, saying: “We are working on it.” I make no guarantees. We’re hoping to get someone in the next week or two, but it’s challenging.
By the way, I have a lot of support; I’m not saying this to brag, but we’re working extremely hard. However, this is an extremely difficult window right now.”
When directly asked if Luton was interested in Cardiff’s McGuinness, Edwards said, “I’m clearly not going to talk about anyone else’s players now, I don’t want to get drawn on any of that.” Despite acknowledging that interest was there.
“But we are working really hard to get not many, but a couple in, and as soon as possible.”
Bulut, who scored in his first game of the season in Tuesday night’s 2-0 victory against Bristol Rovers, has repeatedly stated that Cardiff would not compromise on their assessment of the 23-year-old.
The former Republic of Ireland youth international is thought to be valued at an eight-figure sum, yet the Bluebirds management will not disclose a price.
McGuinness has been an excellent center-half for the team the past two seasons, therefore Bulut is more than willing to keep him if the club’s valuation is not fulfilled. Edwards, however, emphasized that Luton would not be forced to pay transfer costs just because leaving the top division of English football entails receiving parachute money.
“We want players to want to come here to be part of Luton Town,” he stated.
“You will receive a good salary, but it won’t be as much as what some people would receive elsewhere. We want them to be involved in our plans and efforts to help us succeed.
But I’m limited to what I now receive, so I can’t ask for anything more. The board is attempting to support us in our efforts to complete tasks.”
