James offered City chance

City have made an audacious attempt to lure England keeper David James to Ashton Gate.

The 39-year-old has been offered a 12-month contract after leaving Pompey last month, with the move believed to be motivated by James’ desire to remain close to his family home near Exeter.

James was due in Glasgow on Monday for talks with Celtic but pulled out at the last minute.

A City source said: “We have been in touch with David James’ agent and offered him a one-year deal.

“When we heard he had pulled out of talks with Celtic, we decided to make a move last night (Tuesday).

“We have heard that he wants to remain in the West Country and we are waiting for his agent to come back to us with an answer.

“David James is a free agent and is sure to have a lot of offers but, if location is more important to him than money and status, then we feel we are in with a chance.”

Meanwhile, Ipswich striker Jon Stead will remain at Portman Road for the time being after snubbing a £225,000 move to City. The forward is thought to have been attracted a last-ditch bid from Blackpool.

Bolton right-back Nicky Hunt is also mulling over a contract offer from City after travelling to Bristol for talks with boss Steve Coppell on Tuesday.