Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is already known to have enquired about the 17-year-old midfielder and Liverpool and Chelsea are among a host of other Barclays Premier League clubs reported to be interested.

"His next stage of development is to go with better players. He has his off days like any player but he's not fazed," said Jones. "He's not had a full season, which is helpful. If he had been in right from the start he might not be at the level he is now."

Jones insists Saturday's FA Cup final against Portsmouth will not necessarily be the youngster's final bow for the Coca-Cola Championship club despite a number of clubs reportedly preparing multi-million pound offers.

However, he admits it could prove "difficult" if one of the big four come in with an offer.

"We don't have to sell him now," Jones said.

"But if Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal or Liverpool come calling and the price is right it's difficult to say to the kid you are not going to play with (Wayne) Rooney and (Cristiano) Ronaldo.

"We have been very honest since we've been at the club and if it is the right deal for the club and the player then we will do it."