The 23-year-old became a regular for the Stags, operating mainly in his natural role at the heart of defence over his 40 appearances for the club. Brunt was also deployed in defensive midfield at times as he impressed at Field Mill.
Having played a prevalent role in Clough’s promotion-winning side, there have been calls for him to be brought back to the club permanently.
However, it has now been confirmed that Mansfield have failed with a bid for the former Aston Villa talent.
Speaking to The Chad, Clough confirmed Leicester City have rejected an offer for Brunt, and it could be that their valuations are too far apart for a permanent deal to be struck. The Town boss explained:
“We put a bid in which was rejected and unfortunately we might be too far apart in terms of their valuation and what we can pay.
“But we will keep trying with it and we always have the loan option as well. Negotiations are ongoing.
“We are certainly not ruling him out. He remains our number one target.”
A retur still possible?
While Mansfield Town may come up short in their bid to sign Brunt permanently, Clough has made it clear there are still routes for them to bring the Leicester City man back.
Another loan deal wouldn’t be the end of the world. Ultimately, it ensures he’s back at the club, even if not quite in the capacity they had hoped for.
