By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: <a href='http://bit.ly/lRx0Da' class='instorylink'>@skygraemebailey</a>
Wednesday 31 August 2011 10:29, UK
Image:Bates: Wanted by Swansea City
Skysports.com understands Middlesbrough have rejected a bid from Swansea City for captain Matthew Bates.
Swansea bid shunned for Boro star
Skysports.com understands Middlesbrough have rejected a bid from Swansea City for captain Matthew Bates.
Swansea first showed an interest in Bates earlier this month, as skysports.com revealed, and Brendan Rodgers has stepped up his initial interest.
However, the Swans' offer in the region of £1million has been shunned by Boro.
The Teesside club, who have made a bright start to their Championship campaign, have confirmed that they may listen to offers for Bates because he has just a year of his contract left.
But Boro will not allow Bates to leave for less than their valuation and as such have shunned Swansea's bid.
