Middlesbrough boss Gordon Strachan is keen on bringing in new players ahead of the run-in to the season.
“We are still in touch with Middlesbrough about him, but I’d be surprised if he left while it is still mathematically possible for us to stay up,” Posh director of football Barry Fry told the Peterborough Evening Telegraph.
“George was informed of the interest and he was happy to stay and play for us.
“Boro were one of a number of clubs who enquired about George in January.
“They made a bid which was rejected by the chairman because he wanted to keep all his best players to give us the best chance of avoiding relegation.
“The chairman could have cashed in, but he didn’t because he believes in backing his manager.
“We have had several discussions with George’s agent regarding a new contract though and he has consistently made it clear that George would not be signing an extension.
“And to be fair to George he has been a model professional throughout his time here. He has been a great player and a great servant so if the manager believes he can build a side without George that might be the way we go.”
