Colin Todd today had a swipe at the influence of agents amid fears that City have lost out on Bobby Petta.

Todd was hopeful of signing the Dutch winger after productive talks last week and was expecting a positive answer.

But the trail has gone quiet in recent days - a silence which the Bantams boss believes speaks volumes.

And Todd has pointed an accusing finger at the role played by Petta's representative. He said: "The biggest problem is always the agent. I do think we could do a deal but it's the other demands on top.

"Julian Rhodes has had his fingers burned in the past and we feel we shouldn't have to pay agents. The demands aren't big but we get fed up always having to deal with the agent.

"There are some good ones who realise the situation this club is in financially but then there are others who, if they can get the money by taking the player elsewhere will do so.

"We spoke to Petta's agent on Thursday and laid out our terms. He said what the player wanted and there was little change in it.

"He was going back to talk to the player, who was out of the country - and we've heard nothing since."

Todd's hopes of bringing back Dele Adebola on a permanent basis were dashed when the striker signed for Coventry for two more years. But at least Adebola, who was also wanted by Burnley, rang back to let City know.

Todd added: "It was good of him to call. It's a matter of principle but all you ask is to be kept informed.

"I don't know whether Petta or his agent have got something else up their sleeve but the longer it goes on, we're not hopeful.

"The agent has got to work for you and not the other way round. The most important person is the player."