Dundee United boss Robbie Neilson has confessed he could be powerless to stop Lawrence Shankland leaving if a significant offer comes in for his star man before the close of the window.
The Scotland international added to his burgeoning reputation with his 28th goal of the season in Tuesday's 4-2 defeat to Hibs in the Scottish Cup fourth round replay at Easter Road.
A host of scouts were in attendance to keep a close eye on the 24-year-old who is attracting serious interest from Stoke City. The likes of Celtic and a string of other English sides have also been keeping close tabs on his development.
Record Sport exclusively revealed United will look to hold for in excess of £2m if Michael O'Neill's side or other suitors came calling for a player who is under contract until 2022.
Shankland's goals have fired Dundee United clear at the top of the Championship and his boss admits he wouldn't be surprised to see clubs firm up their interest in the former Aberdeen and Ayr forward.
Neilson told BBC Scotland: "Lawrence is a key player and we've still got a lot of work to do in the league.
"But after today's performance and the goal that he scored, there's going to be more interest."
And the United boss admits if a big-money bid emerges then his board will have a decision to make.
He added: "It depends what the bid is. If someone comes in with a million pounds it's going to get papped out the door.
"It's a question for the owner (Mark Ogren). He makes the decision about what gets done. I advise. (Sporting director) Tony Asghar advises as well.
"I'd keep Lawrence to the end of his contract, but it doesn't make financial sense for the club. The price of keeping Lawrence is high because we've got to get back in the (top) league."
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