Caley Thistle manager John Robertson insists midfielder Ross Draper will not be sold on the cheap despite continuing interest from Highland rivals Ross County.
Staggies manager Jim McIntyre is determined to land Englishman Draper, despite failing to meet Inverness’ valuation of the midfielder with his latest bid of £80,000.
Draper has been one of Caley Jags’ most consistent performers in recent seasons, but is one of the club’s highest-earners following relegation to the Championship.
The 28-year-old has two years remaining on his contract and Robertson says Caley Jags will not be pressured into selling him.
Robertson said: “County have enquired, but their valuation of Ross is nowhere near what we think he is worth.
“He’s a big player for us. The board have factored Ross and his wage into the budget, so we are under no pressure unless it’s a very substantial bid.
“If Ross County come up with a bid that matches or exceeds our valuation then perhaps there’s an opportunity to do something.
“But it’s not on our radar right now. We don’t want him to go. Ross is aware of that.”
Draper has made 201 appearances for Caley Jags since joining from Macclesfield Town in 2012, and was part of the Inverness side that won the Scottish Cup two years ago.
Despite Caley Jags’ relegation from the Premiership, Robertson is confident Draper will continue to give his all for the club, and he added: “We will keep him abreast of everything that’s happening and as we saw again in our friendly against Brora Rangers on Tuesday night, his attitude is first class.
“That’s why we’re happy to keep him. If any team puts in an offer that the board feel is acceptable, it will be looked at. But right now, they are nowhere near the value we expect for Ross.
“We can’t and will never dissuade any club from making a bid for our good players.
” Ross is a very good player but unless it’s something outstanding, that we feel we can’t turn down, he won’t be going anywhere.”
