WANDERERS have turned down TWO bids for teenager Luca Connell, The Bolton News understands.

Several Premier League clubs are keeping tabs on the talented 17-year-old, who has played just once in the Championship.

We have learned this morning that two offers, one from Brighton and another from Southampton, have thus far been rejected.

Burnley and Tottenham have also been mentioned as potential suitors.

Reports at the Amex Stadium claim Brighton and Wanderers are at odds over the valuation of the Republic of Ireland youth international, and that the club has been monitoring him for 18 months.

Connell is currently on a scholar’s contract at the University of Bolton Stadium but efforts are being made to sign him up to a professional deal.

Phil Parkinson was unequivocal in his view that Connell would remain a Wanderers player during the current window, stating after Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw with Reading: “He will be here at the end of the week.

“There will be people watching him, obviously. When you are a young player making a debut on Friday, play so well, then back it up with another good performance, of course that will happen.

“He’s a great player and we are looking forward to seeing him here for a long time to come, hopefully.”