Stage: the bid was rejected. It became public after the bid was rejected. It would be a lateral move. A bid has already been rejected. The talk has begun to distract him.
Outlook
Contract request risk increased.
Criticised by the manager after his performance
Minor
Cause
A calm conversation but he wasn't moved either way.
Stage: concrete interest. The interested club has formally approached. It would be a lateral move. He is the kind of player whose camp likes the noise. The talk has begun to distract him.