Walsall boss Mat Sadler issues response amid 'reported' Oisin McEntee interest

The report went on to add that sporting director Malky Mackay has already started conducting "background checks" on the 24-year-old who is out of contract in the summer.

However, when asked if he was aware of the interest in McEntee, Sadler insisted that it was the first he had heard of the speculation.

"I think Oisin has really grown in stature over the last few weeks and months," boss Sadler said.

"We know he is a fantastic player so it doesn't surprise me if there is [interest from other clubs] but there is nothing that I've heard."

McEntee, who joined Walsall from Newcastle United in 2022, has made 71 appearances in all competitions for the club, scoring six goals. 

The former Republic of Ireland under-21 international has featured 29 times this term - including 24 appearances in League Two. 

He is one of 13 Walsall players who are yet to put pen to paper on a new deal beyond the summer, with Sadler revealing last week that negotiations have been "parked" until the end of the season.

Walsall also have option years for Jamie Jellis, Evan Weir and Rico Browne.

Sadler feels interest in his players from other clubs is a "necessary evil" and added that he would be more concerned if there was no interest at all.

"It's part of it unfortunately. It's a necessary evil that you want people to want your players, what you don't want is nobody wanting your players because they're not good enough," he added.