BURNLEY are set to start the bidding for Leeds United midfielder Adam Clayton, and are also weighing up a move for Portsmouth right back Joel Ward.

Clayton has been transfer-listed by Neil Warnock after failing to sign a new deal, with 12 months on his current contract remaining, while Ward is set to be among the first in a Fratton Park summer firesale as the club prepares to further cut its cloth for life in League One.

Clarets manager Eddie Howe stressed before the end of last season that he wanted to do his transfer business as early as possible, after being caught on the back foot by late sales last summer.

At the time the former Bournemouth boss was quick to swoop for Kieran Trippier and Ben Mee on loan from Manchester City initially, and the duo proved excellent acquisitions when the moves were made permanent in January, with Trippier going on to take the supporters’ and club player of the season prizes.

But Howe is determined to go into pre-season largely with the squad he intends to start the campaign with.

However, the Clarets face competition from Championship rivals for both targets, who would each cost in the region of £400,000.

Crystal Palace, Ipswich and Leeds have all registered their interest in Ward, whose versatility would be attractive to Burnley as he is capable of playing both at right back and in a defensive midfield role.

Palace initially appeared to be in the driving seat for the 22-year-old, who spent the 2008/09 season on loan at Bournemouth, working under Howe for the second half of the campaign.

Ipswich are also bullish about their chances. But there is a suggestion that he could make his way to Leeds if Clayton moves on.

A decision is not expected about the future of either until next week at the earliest.

Former Manchester City midfielder Clayton, 23, made 46 appearances for Leeds this season, scoring six goals. His effort at Leicester in November was voted goal of the season by Leeds fans.