GET THE LATEST ROBINS NEWS STRAIGHT TO YOUR INBOX SIGN UP Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Bristol City appeared to have failed in their attempt to sign Zack Steffen from Columbus Crew SC.

The Robins have been interested in signing the highly-rated 23-year-old from the MLS club and they submitted an offer worth £3million

Despite reports from the US suggesting that the young American was keen on the move, Columbus have now knocked back the offer.

"We evaluated an offer and decided it wasn't the right opportunity for the club at this moment," Crew sporting director and coach Gregg Berhalter told ESPN.

(Image: Getty)

Reports suggest that the money offered was right but the MLS side decided they wouldn't be able to replace Steffen at this stage of their season.

The offer would have been the highest fee paid for an MLS goalkeeper and it remains to be seen if Bristol City will return with an improved bid given the circumstances.

Work permit issues will be less problematic for Steffen in 12 months if he becomes the first-choice goalkeeper for the US national team. There is also a chance that teams from the Premier League will become interested if he is the number one for his country.

The news leaves Lee Johnson returning to his goalkeeper shortlist with the Robins currently having Niki Maenpaa on trial during their pre-season training camp in Marbella.

The 33-year-old could be in line to feature against Rayo Vallecano on Saturday evening as Bristol City round off their trip to Spain.

Other options for Johnson include free agent Tim Krul who is available after leaving Brighton & Hove Albion with Reading and City interested.