Stage: loose rumour. The national press has carried the story. The link is speculative for now. The same rumour keeps coming back. The talk has begun to distract him.
Stage: concrete interest. The interested club has formally approached. It would be a lateral move. He is a loyal type and unlikely to push for a move. The talk has begun to distract him.
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.
Signed a new contract
Moderate
Cause
He committed to the project on terms both sides could live with.
Stage: concrete interest. The interested club has formally approached. It would be a lateral move. He is a loyal type and unlikely to push for a move. The talk has begun to distract him.