Birmingham City boss Gary Monk has refused to be drawn on speculation linking 22-year-old Che Adams with a move away from St Andrew's, according to Birmingham Live.

It was reported in the Daily Mirror that 12 Premier League scouts were in attendance this weekend as the Blues lost to Middlesbrough, with Adams top of their list of possible signings.

He bagged his 13th goal of the season as the Blues went down 2-1, representing a career best for him. When asked about the presence of scouts and the player's future, Monk refused to be drawn.

“At the end of the day, it’s speculation. When players are playing well, they’ll be talked about,” Monk said.

“But I don’t need to comment on speculation because it is just speculation. We cannot afford to lose any players, we can only afford to add to it. The club understand that, I understand that, and the players understand that."

“Everyone is focused on what they need to do for Birmingham and that’s how will it remain this season.”

Adams joined the Blues in 2016 for a fee thought to be around £2m, scoring 17 goals in his first 75 matches for the club. It is his form this season which will excite fans the most as he finally appears to be realising the huge potential his shown since being plucked from non-league by Sheffield United.

The Verdict

Adams is growing into a better striker every time he takes the field. He's mobile and aware of space developing, allowing him to exploit weaknesses in most sides. Boro are a tight-knit defence, but his goal demonstrated his qualities perfectly. It would have given those scouts food for thought.

Monk can't lose players this winter. He's unable to replace anyone, so there's little value in taking a big bid for one of his stars.

Thoughts? Let us know!