MARTIN Paterson’s Clarets future remains up in the air amid negotiations for an improved offer at Burnley.

The Clarets are keen to keep the striker, who has reached the end of his contract and would be able to leave on a free transfer after five years with the club.

Burnley, who are looking to trim their wage bill, have yet to come up with an acceptable package for the Northern Ireland international.

It is not just a matter of finances for Paterson, however. While the striker has always shown his willingness to do whatever job is asked of him in the team – often positioned on either flank in a front three or midfield five – he has never made a secret of his desire to play up front.

In previous contract talks he has tried to seek assurances that he would be given the opportunity to play as a central striker, as did Jay Rodriguez under former boss Brian Laws.

Paterson’s stance on his preferred position has not changed and would be as much of a factor in his future as finance.

It is understood the striker wanted a resolution over his Clarets career before this weekend.

The 26-year-old gets married today and ideally would have wanted a clearer idea on what the rest of the summer will hold ahead of his honeymoon.

Other clubs are interested in the striker, who helped to fire Burnley to promotion in 2009 at the end of his first season at Turf Moor, but Paterson chose to effectively offer the Clarets first refusal.

Burnley are now set to consider offering the forward improved terms.