Sheffield Wednesday have launched a bid for York City centre forward Josh Stones, according to reports.
The Owls are rumoured to hold a long-standing interest in Stones and Peter O'Rourke reported late on Monday night that there was an offer on the table for York to consider.
The 22-year-old netted a dramatic goal in the 13th minute of stoppage time away at Rochdale to earn his side a dramatic promotion to League Two on the final day of the National League season.
York City co-chairman Matt Uggla offered a punchy response to the reports, claiming that it would not be enough for the Minsterman to part company with their star man.
Stones has already played at League One level in his career, albeit briefly, when signing for Wigan Athletic as an 18-year-old after impressing for National League North side Guiseley. Loan moves to Ross County and Oldham followed before a permanent move to York, where he has rediscovered his goalscoring touch.
He netted 18 goals in 28 league starts last season, form that the ambitious new hierarchy at Hillsborough think can help them make a swift return to the Championship.
Wednesday have been taken over by a US-based consortium, led by aviation expert David Storch, and have already been linked with numerous names; including a move for ex-Owls midfielder Barry Bannan.
"Understand Sheffield Wednesday have made a significant offer for York City striker Josh Stones," O'Rourke published on his X account.
Despite reports of the bid, York co-chair Uggla issued an emphatic rebuttal, saying: "Not enough money in the world to buy our mythical creature." The message followed by a red cross emoji.
Given the solid record of promoted National League sides in the fourth tier, York will have reason to believe that they hold a good chance of achieving back-to-back promotions should they keep hold of their key players.
The Minstermen are 5/2 return to League One following a near 30-year absence from the third tier of English football.
All odds correct at time of publishing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.
