John-Baptiste handed in a transfer request after Mansfield Town's relegation from the Football League, despite being one of just a handful of players under contract for next season.

That prompted a row when a leaked e-mail - seen by Chad - suggested that the defender was for sale 'on the cheap'.

• Baptiste for sale 'on cheap'

The e-mail, from the player's agent, said that Stags owner Keith Haslam was looking for a quick sale, for around £75,000 - half the price of the fee wanted a year earlier.

It said the reduced fee was dependant on a transfer ahead of any sale of the Stags.

Since then there have been few rumours surrounding the want-away player - and manager Paul Holland said last week there had been no enquiries for the player.

But Chad understands that talks over a transfer were held last week and a fee discussed. However, it is not known if the Seasiders are being asked to meet that £75,000 valuation.

John-Baptiste's 'high' wages for a Blue Square Premier club mean that any new owners at Field Mill would probably be happy for the highly rated defender to move on.

Another Stag could also be on his way, with Scunthorpe now one of the favourites for hot-shot striker Michael Boulding's signature - if he rejects a new deal offered by Mansfield.

Scunthorpe manager Nigel Adkins recently admitted to watching Boulding on several occasions last season.

Grimsby, Lincoln, Morecambe and Rotherham are also in the hunt for last season's leading scorer.