Hunt goes on

NORTHERN Ireland's Josh Magennis (left) and Germany's Bastian Schweinsteiger battle for the ball during the UEFA Euro 2016. Athletic's hopes of signing Magennis appear to be diminishing

ATHLETIC appear set to move on from the chase for striker Josh Magennis, hitting back at stinging criticism of the club's conduct by stating that their bid was discussed with Kilmarnock before being lodged.

Killie director Billy Bowie publically labelled Athletic's alleged offer of less than £50,000 for the Northern Ireland international as "laughable" and "beyond belief".

While not wanting to get into the row, Stephen Robinson said the real figure was not only higher than that, but that it was close to what the Rugby Park club themselves indicated they would accept.

It is thought that Athletic's current offer is in fact into six figures, including add-ons.

However, it appears that the row has scuppered the prospect of a deal, at least for the time being.

"What they put out in the press is not true," said Athletic boss Robinson, who knows Magennis well having worked with him through the age groups with Northern Ireland.

"We made an offer for the player which was more than they put out there as being derisory.

"We were given an indication as to what would do the deal and it was not too far away from it.

"I don't want to get involved in a tit-for-tat. Josh is a super boy and I would love him at the club. He would enhance what we have here.

"At this moment in time it is not going to happen, but who knows?"

Ousmane Fane completed his move to Athletic from Kidderminster yesterday in a £30,000 deal. The 22-year-old has signed a two-year contract with the option of a third and comes into contention for Millwall in the season-opener on Saturday.

Athletic's willingness to pay out transfer fees may come as a surprise to many, but Robinson stressed that the money he has been given to work with has not increased.

"My budget hasn't changed and I have been clever with what I have done with it," he said.

"Whatever you bid for someone comes out of your budget, whether someone is paid £1,000 a week or you are paying £50,000 for them. It's the same thing.

"I would rather run on a smaller squad with quality players. We have a very good medical team with Stuart (Irwin, Athletic's physio) as well. He has been fantastic and people like him allow you to do that.

"I would also not read too much into reports of what has been paid for people."

Athletic remain in the hunt for a new striker and winger and Robinson revealed the club have upped the offer made to Liandro Martis, who scored as a trialist for a Leicester City XI this week.

"We have made an offer for Liandro and we have improved our offer," Robinson added.

"He is a gamble but one well worth taking in what he might bring. It is ongoing, but there has to be a point where we say 'that's enough'."

ATHLETIC will face Everton in the final of the Lancashire FA Senior Cup on Wednesday, August 10 (7.30pm kick-off).

The game will take place at the County Ground, Thurston Road, Leyland, PR25 2LF. Admission prices are £8 adults and £4 concessions.

Athletic reached the final after seeing off Manchester United on penalties this week.