Birmingham City have rejected a £1.5 million bid from AFC Bournemouth for Demarai Gray, according to Mail journalist Laurie Whitwell.

The Cherries have had a bid rejected for Gray
The Cherries have had a bid rejected for Gray

The 18-year-old winger is one of the most sought after players in the Sky Bet Championship, and is already being compared to Liverpool starlet Raheem Sterling.

Gray has attracted interest from some of the biggest clubs in England, with Newcastle United and Arsenal also hot on the heels of the promising starlet.

The highly-rated winger has played for the England under-18 and under-19 side on several occasions, and he is set for a bright future in the senior team in the years to come.

The wonderkid has been at the Blues his whole career, however has he has really found his feet this season, especially under new boss Gary Rowett who is giving Gray a wealth of first-team opportunities.

It is no surprise to see Birmingham rejecting the offer from Eddie Howe's AFC Bournemouth, as the youngster certainly has the pedigree and potential to play in the top-flight, and subsequently be sold for a considerable amount of money.

Gray's ability was clearly showcased when he obliterated Reading on the wing earlier this month, scoring a hat-trick which ultimately lead to a 6-1 win for Birmingham over the Royals.

Whether the Midlands club will be able to keep their prized asset in this January transfer window is yet to be seen, however if a sizeable offer is tabled for him it would be no surprise to see him leave.

It is unknown as to whether the Cherries will go in with an increased bid for his services.

The Blues currently sit in 14th position in the Sky Bet Championship, whilst the Cherries are sitting top of the Championship as we head into the new year.