Gary Breen could be on his way from City, but they will want at least £4 million for the lanky centreback.

The wheels started turning when it was reported north of the border that Celtic had targeted the big Irishman as a replacement when Alan Stubbs is sold.

Aston Villa are reportedly keen to sign Stubbs and Celtic’s former Villa boss Jo Venglos is said to be keen on Breen.

City’s chairman Bryan Richardson says he has had no official approach from Celtic, but he revealed his hand when he added that although Breen was not transfer-listed if an offer came in from any club he would consider it.

The reason is obvious. Although Breen is a regular international for the Republic of Ireland, he is fourth choice in Coventry’s central defence. He wants first team football and Coventry must feel they can afford to let him go at the right price.

Richardson says any offer must bear relation to Breen’s value. He cost City £2.5 million from Birmingham City two years ago and they would want that back and more for a player who has improved beyond measure in the Premiership.

City recently paid out £2 million for Monaco’s Bosnian international centre half Muhamed Konjic, who is being kept out of the side only by the brilliance of Paul Williams and Richard Shaw.

Breen and Konjic link up in the reserves against West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns tonight.

Coventry are having a clear out of their younger professionals to make way for the upcoming crop from the new soccer academy.