Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony has confirmed that the club would aim to bring in another defender on a permanent deal if Ronnie Edwards were to leave this window.
There has been much speculation over the future of the 20-year-old, who is reportedly attracting the interest of Premier League sides West Ham United and Bournemouth.
Many Posh fans feared a deal had already been struck following the signing of 18-year-old defender Jadel Katongo on a season-long loan from Manchester City, however, the Irishman rebuffed the notion on Twitter, instead announcing that the League One side would reinvest the money on a permanent target.
MacAnthony also ruled out the possibility of the England U20 international returning on a potential loan deal to the Weston Homes Stadium, if a permanent move was completed away from the Cambridgeshire-based outfit.
Edwards is one of the brightest prospects in the third tier, making 93 appearances for Peterborough in all competitions since his move from Barnet in in 2020.
His performances and potential have attracted the interest of many clubs higher up the pyramid, and Scottish Premiership side Rangers have even been told in recent weeks that they cannot afford the talented youngster.
What’s been said?
With deadline day approaching, MacAnthony announced his belief that the League One side would receive bids from three unnamed Premier League clubs, while also revealing he is stunned that Edwards remains at the club.
“It’s an absolute joke Ronnie is still here,” the 47-year-old said.
“We are all amazed, and it’s not because we are being greedy or silly. I know three Premier League clubs will make bids for Ronnie before the transfer deadline. But they will sign other players first as they don’t want their first signing to be a 20-year-old from League One.”
Writer’s View
Edwards is considered one of the best English defenders within his age group, so it is no surprise that Premier League clubs have come calling.
He is certainly one I expect to play for the England first team one day, and Peterborough have a history of helping players reach that dream.
Much like Darragh, I am also surprised to see him still line up for Posh in the third tier, however, they are a club that ensure they get value for money, so any potential suitor would have to come in with a substantial bid to get the deal over the line before Friday’s deadline.
