In an exclusive statement issued to The Evening Telegraph, MacAnthony reveals letting Mclean go would send out the wrong message to both the younger players at the club and Posh fans.

MacAnthony admits he slapped the £5 million price tag on Mclean's head after being irritated by fervent speculation linking Mclean with a £1.75 million move to Wolves.

MacAnthony said: "Taking a couple of million pounds from a Championship club would be the worst bit of business I have done as 30 goals-per-season strikers do not grow on trees.

"I will not be bullied by other clubs and the games they play through agents or the media into selling my best players."

MacAnthony also reveals how:

• He believes Mclean and Craig Mackail-Smith have formed the best strike partnership in the country.


• He is not convinced a transfer to Wolves would be the right move for Mclean.


• He is disappointed Mclean turned down a new contract offer recently. Read MacAnthony's view here »


• POSH are closing in on former Wrexham midfielder Mark Jones.

Director of football Barry Fry revealed the 23 year-old is likely to sign in the near future.

Fry said: "He'll sign a contract on July 1 once he's had a medical and the normal formalities. The gaffer feels he has got tremendous ability and wants to give him the chance to fulfil it."

Fry admitted fellow League One sides Cheltenham and Swindon are interested in Josh Low, while Rushden are keen to sign keeper Shwan Jalal.

He added: "We have had a chat with both clubs about Josh while we are also talking to Rushden regarding Jalal. We can't make the package right on that one but will be speaking again."