NEWPORT County manager Anthony Hudson has blasted Cheltenham Town for making an “embarrassing” bid for captain Gary Warren.

The Exiles boss confirmed that the board have rejected a £10,000 offer for his skipper from the League Two strugglers.

Having lost fellow central defender Chris Todd to Forest Green Rovers, Hudson insists that Warren is a big part of his plans and will not be allowed to leave on the cheap.

“I spoke to their manager [Mark Yates] and they offered £10,000 but that was rejected,” said Hudson.

“That was two weeks ago and we’ve had no contact since.

“It’s an embarrassing amount. If I was bidding for such a fantastic player and I offered that I’d want to keep it quiet.

“It’s an insult to think we’d let him go for that amount.

“Gary Warren is our captain and is a massive part of this club,” he added.

“He’s destined for the Football League one day and we won’t stand in his way if it was a deal that was right for all parties but it would take something a little bit special to take him away.

“We are building something at this club and hopefully Gary can lead us into the Football League.

“The fans already love him and we’re talking about him committing to the club.”

Rumours have been circulating about various clubs making a move for Jamie Collins, Paul Bignot, Danny Rose, Glyn Thompson and Lee Baker but the Warren bid is the only concrete offer the club has received for any player.

“It’s disappointing the way these things come out but if I was a fan of this club I’d be very happy and excited about the future,” said Hudson.

“We are close to making two very strong signings with Football League experience, players who have won titles and promotion.

“But the last thing we need to do is rush into things, we’re well on course and I’m very confident about next season.

“We’ve lost Chris Todd, who was a good professional and a fantastic character and we wish him all the best. But there have been no offers for anyone else,” he added.

“Lee Baker and Danny Rose are a big part of what we’re doing and Danny’s next move will be to a Championship or League One club – he’s that good.

“Again, we wouldn’t stand in his way if that happened but if would have to be a big fee for a quality player.”

Bignot is no longer on Leicester City’s wanted list and midfielders Scott Rogers and Kerry Morgan are close to agreeing new contracts.

But number one Thompson looks like he will be following fellow goalkeeper Glyn Garner out of the door, while Jamie Collins and Robbie Matthews are also expected to leave Spytty Park.

“Glyn Thompson has done very well for this club and is a really good ‘keeper but he’s found it hard to commit full-time,” explained Hudson.

"He's under contract but he's exploring his options."