STUART McCall insists James Meredith will not be affected by transfer-window rumours as he urged City to step up contract talks.

The in-form defender, one of a number of players whose deals are up in the summer, has been linked with Norwich and Leeds.

McCall stressed there had been no contact with the club and is confident the stories will not unsettle one of City's most consistent performers.

"We've had no offers for any of our players, so it's pure speculation at this moment," said McCall.

"A couple of lads have had a joke with Mezza but he's a focused lad and determined to get promotion with us.

"Players are going to get linked with other clubs and I don't know if anyone has been in touch with his agent.

"As a player, I was going to Celtic as a kid, according to some papers – and that was never going to happen in a million years!

"If you're a young kid, it might be different, but Mezza is experienced enough."

Meredith recently stated that he wanted to stay a couple more years at Valley Parade before returning to Australia, although it is understood there is a release clause figure in his contract.

McCall has been talking to the 28-year-old and others in the final season of their present deals but there have been no serious discussions so far.

"It's coming to a stage where the club have got to look to get involved in negotiations," said the Bantams boss.

"The game has changed a lot in recent years. Players do get to the end of their contracts and then re-sign, certainly at this level.

"There are players we've got in our squad coming out of contract and my recommendation would be to sit down and talk to them. But I don't have the final say on that."

James Hanson, whose deal also expires in June, is not surprised to see his team-mate being linked with higher clubs – but he knows the Australian will not be put off.

"I know him really well and he'll just be focused on the Millwall game this weekend and training like he has been," said the City striker.

"The previous manager was good with me with speculation like that. He pulled me into his office and reassured me and I'm sure Stuart will do the same.

"Mez is playing really well and getting all the plaudits and it wouldn't surprise me if he is attracting interest. I don't know if it's up to Bradford to tie him down and try to get him on a longer contract.

"He's had a cracking season and is capable of playing in the Championship – but hopefully that will be with us."