Bluebirds keen to keep Whittingham

The 25-year-old midfielder has been heavily linked with a move to the City Ground this summer after finishing last season as the joint-top goalscorer in the second tier.

Whittingham, who joined the Bluebirds from Aston Villa in 2007, has one year remaining on his contract at the Welsh club but is in talks over a new deal.

"We rejected the bid from Nottingham Forest as we want to keep hold of Whittingham," said Cardiff chief executive Gethin Jenkins.

"We are continuing negotiations with Peter over a new contract here at Cardiff."

Preston North End have signed midfielder Darel Russell on a three-year deal following his departure from newly-promoted Norwich City.

Portsmouth have agreed deals to sign Jamie Ashdown and Stephen Jordan.

Goalkeeper Ashdown is re-signing for the cash-strapped club having been released at the end of last season while defender Jordan is a free agent after leaving Burnley.