Stage: shortlisted. The local press has carried the story. The link is speculative for now. The interested club is meaningfully bigger. The talk has begun to distract him.
Stage: the bid was rejected. It became public after the bid was rejected. The move would be a clear step up. A bid has already been rejected. He is flattered by the attention. It would be a clear sporting upgrade.
Outlook
Contract request risk increased.
Criticised in a full-time post-mortem
Minor
Cause
It was a private show of faith after a tough recent run. He does not always respond well to pressure, which softened the lift.
Outlook
Manager intervention may be required if it persists.
Praised by the manager
Major
Cause
The discussion covered general matters.
Asked the manager for a private conversation
Moderate
Cause
He has unresolved concerns over his contract. His relationship with the manager is steady but tense.
Outlook
Manager intervention may be required if it persists.
Signed a new contract
Moderate
Cause
He committed to the project on terms both sides could live with.