QPR are going to have to up the ante if they hope to capture Luke Freeman from Bristol City.

Robins boss Lee Johnson revealed to the Bristol Evening Post a new contract had been quietly put in front of the 24-year-old that bypassed all in the west country - and was roundly rejected.

It leaves Freeman weighing his options knowing Rangers had a bid rejected for the exciting midfielder last Friday.

Chances are, other clubs will be also aware City might be forced into a corner over his sale bearing in mind his contract runs out in the summer.

If it comes to it, City will want £500k plus at least with the usual sell on clauses attached.

Johnson explained: "We want Luke Freeman to stay and we have offered him a contract. He was on the verge of signing and we hope that will still happen.

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"I think the club made a very good signing when they brought him in from Stevenage and he was pretty much the best player in League One. He has been one of our top performers this season."

Asked if he thought Freeman would stay with City, Johnson replied: "I could lie to you and say I'm 100 per cent certain, but you are never sure.

"There are literally things going on every couple of hours and it is difficult to be sure.

"Luke Freeman is out of contract at the end of the season. He's 24 and been playing pretty well and, because of his stature, there will be clubs interested in him."

The video above gives you a hint as to why when Freeman scored a cracker against Ipswich in December.

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