Bristol City CEO Richard Gould has hinted there could be departures from the squad in the transfer market after admitting it's time for some players to be moved on this summer.
Robins manager Nigel Pearson remains in a tough position while trying to bolster his side after conceding they need to sell before bringing players in. He also suggested last week how they may have to trade their way to success before the window closes on September 1.
City's shortage of finances is no secret but the manager provided encouragement that some cash is available after revealing the club have made enquiries to clubs over certain players which have so far proved unsuccessful.
Pearson's dilemma remains that his squad is already thin on the ground, magnified by the pre-match injury to Matty James on Saturday and therefore allowing players to leave is easier said than done. However, Gould conceded there has been interest in members of the squad, some of which could be allowed to leave.
Speaking to 3 Peaps In A Podcast, he said: "I can't sit here and promise that there are a whole host of new additions that is going to happen between now and the 1st of September.
"We have got interest in some of our players, some of which it might be timely for them to move on and for others that we want to protect. Having our key assets at the end of this window is going to be a positive but it's a balancing act."
Although no clues as to which players he is referring to, City have six first-team players whose contracts expire at the end of the season in Dan Bentley, Han-Noah Massengo, Tomas Kalas, Jay Dasilva, Nahki Wells and Zak Vyner although the club have the option of an extra year in the latter's contract.
There have also been no offers or enquiries for midfielder Massengo although Wells was a previous transfer target for Preston before manager Ryan Lowe strengthened his side with the additions of Ben Woodburn and Troy Parrott.
Club captain Bentley was a transfer target of Bournemouth's with Scott Parker in the market for a new keeper but they opted to complete a deal for Barcelona's Neto on Monday. On Saturday, City owner Steve Lansdown also stated he wouldn't stand in the way of Alex Scott or Antoine Semenyo if a Premier League club came calling but reiterated they haven't received any offers for their key duo.
Gould also addressed the situation of potential loan incomings. Pearson has been previously reluctant to bring in players on a temporary basis due to the previous culture of the club but said they have made approaches to Premier League clubs.
"We do look at loan options," Gould added. "We also have to look at the value of them and cost of them. Also, the clubs, when players are looking to go out on loan and clubs are looking to place them, they want to know that they're going to get games. That's what they're after.
"Bringing a centre-forward on loan would be interesting, will they get ahead of Antoine Semenyo, Weimann and Martin? And if somebody does come in, does that mean there's less opportunity for Tommy Conway and Sam Bell? Again, there's a balance on that."
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