JAY Rodriguez is set to be at the centre of a Premier League bidding war – with Fulham ready to raise the stakes.

The Cottagers have already had a £5million offer turned down by Burnley, who have set a minimum £8m pricetag on their sought-after striker.

Fulham, managed by Martin Jol, are not yet expected to meet the Clarets’ demands. But I under-stand the London club is gearing up to make a fresh bid, as compe-tition for Rodriguez’s signature intensifies.

At least five top flight teams, plus Scottish Premier League champions Celtic, were chasing the Turf Moor top scorer at the start of the week.

Since then the list of serious suitors has grown, with Championship title winners Reading keen to add him to their ranks as they prepare for a return to the top flight.

Championship play-off semi-finalists Cardiff have also joined Newcastle, Norwich, Bolton and newly promoted Southampton in the hunt for the 22-year-old.

Rodriguez is reported to be wanted by Everton too.

But Fulham have been the most proactive in terms of offers at the moment, although the situation is changing daily.

Newcastle made a tentative enquiry in January, while Southampton had a bid of at least £5million knocked back last summer, just months after manager Eddie Howe succeeded in securing the England Under 21 cap on a new two-year deal.

With a year left to run on that contract, the Clarets are refusing to be rushed into doing business with any team at this stage.

Similarly, Rodriguez will be advised to take his time over any decision he makes.

The Burnley-born striker seemingly has his pick of clubs, and is unlikely to make his mind up until later in the summer.

Meanwhile, Brighton have been priced out of a move for Dean Marney.

The midfielder was being tracked by the south coast club.

But the Seagulls are understood to have been put off by the former Hull City player’s wages.