The popular German forward, pictured, has scored 17 goals so far this season, ten of them in the Ryman League's top flight after firing them to promotion last term, and joint-boss Elphick admits the Rebels have heard rumours linking Bugiel with a move away from Woodside Road.
Elphick has no doubt that the striker can play higher and told www.worthingherald.co.uk on Thursday: “We’ve heard the whispers but there hasn’t been anything concrete yet, so he’s got to keep doing what he’s doing.
"He’s under contract here and is under 24, so we’ve got to protect the interests of Worthing Football Club as he’s been here for a number of years and any move would have to be best for him as well."
He added: “January is going to be a big month as teams higher up will get a budget for the transfer window and I’m sure he’s someone teams will be interested in. The speculation is something we’ll have to deal with but he’s the linchpin of our side. We want him to stay here and his target should be 25-plus goals this season.”
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