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Grant McCann says Leonardo da Silva Lopes is not for sale this month after Hull City rejected an offer for the midfielder from New York Red Bulls.

Da Silva Lopes has been identified as a top target by the MLS side, who want to add the 21-year-old to their ranks ahead of a new season kicking off in the US next month.

As first reported by Hull Live on Friday afternoon, the Tigers knocked back that opening bid and have since made it clear to New York Red Bulls they have no wish to cash in on a young player that only arrived at the KCOM Stadium from Wigan five months ago.

“Firstly it was a lot more than what was touted, secondly he’s not for sale,” said McCann after watching his City side progress to the FA Cup fourth round with a 3-2 win at Rotherham.

“It’s as simple as that. He’s been here for four months and he’s growing every time he plays. He’s getting better and better.

“It doesn’t surprise me because he’s got energy, pace, a change of direction, he’s got a calmness.

“He’s played 150 or something games at 21. It doesn’t surprise me because he’s got so much more to come but he’s not for sale.”

The bid from the MLS was unexpected in a month when City’s focus is on strengthening a side they believe can reach the Championship play-offs.

The financial muscle of New York Red Bulls means a follow-up offer cannot be ruled out but McCann has made his stance clear over Da Silva Lopes’ future.

“It doesn’t surprise me because they’re a big firm, the Red Bull firm. I think they’ve got three clubs haven’t they?” he added.

“I’ve said before when we’ve talked about Jarrod (Bowen) that no-one is for sale. We’re in a good position in the league.

“Money does talk and it’s a substantial offer that the club can’t turn down then it might be different but at the minute I’ve been told no-one is for sale.”

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