Middlesbrough chief executive Keith Lamb insists the North East
club are keen to tie Mark Viduka to a longer deal, with talks
scheduled to start after the close of the January transfer
window.
The Australian international is out of contract at the end of the
current season and his agent, Steve Kutner, stated on Tuesday
morning that Viduka was 'resigned' to leaving The Riverside after
failing to receive a new offer from the club.
West Ham are believed to be interested in the former Leeds striker
but Boro boss Gareth Southgate has always maintained he is
determined to keep Viduka on Teesside for the rest of the season
and beyond.
In response to Kutner's comments, Lamb has now confirmed that
contract talks will get underway once the January transfer window
comes to a close.
"Both Mark and Steve Kutner are well aware of our position, and
that is that we want to extend his contract beyond its expiry in
the summer," said Lamb.
"Gareth could not have made his admiration for Mark more clear and
both Mark and the fans know the manager wants him to stay.
"With all of its attendant issues brought on by the transfer
window, January is not the time to sit down and discuss the future
of a player already under contract.
"Everyone is aware of the difficult season we have had so far.
Players and staff are dedicating all of their time and energy to
our improving position on the pitch.
"Once the transfer window is closed, we will be only too pleased to
sit down with Mark's advisor to discuss his future."