Bruce sounds Upson warning

Bruce sounds Upson warning Thu 04 Aug, 7:50 AM

Steve Bruce has told Liverpool they will have to come up with "an absolutely mbuttive bid" to persuade Birmingham to sell Matthew Upson.

Boss Rafael Benitez is on the hunt for another centre-back and has been linked with a move for England star Upson.

But Bruce said: "I've read about four or five million pounds but that's ridiculous. There would be no chance, absolutely no chance at that," he said. "It would have to be absolutely mbuttive, at least double figures, and I don't even want to be contemplating putting a price on him. He's an England centre-half, 25, and he has three years on his contract.

"It helps us that we've got nice, rich 'sugar daddies' as owners. People know we don't need to sell."

Bruce will continue with his recruitment drive despite Nicky Butt's arrival and he has admitted to making an offer for Charlton's Jason Euell, who can play up front or in midfield.

"I think what you have to do is be patient and see what happens with the big boys first, like Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Newcastle and Tottenham," he said.

"That's what enabled us to get Mikael Forssell.

"There are still five weeks to go before the window shuts. I expect there to be a bit of a flurry nearer then."