BURNLEY are reportedly expecting captain Ben Mee to leave Turf Moor this summer following relegation from the Premier League.

The defender is out of contract this summer and has options of where to go next, according to The Athletic.

Mee has become a fan favourite in East Lancashire since joining from Manchester City in the summer of 2011, initially on a loan deal.

The 32-year-old played key roles in the Clarets’ promotions from the Championship in 2014 and 2016, as well as featuring in the Europa League qualifying rounds.

He missed the final weeks of the campaign after suffering a hairline fracture on his fibula during the 2-0 defeat against Leicester.

Mee then became part of the coaching set-up to assist interim boss Mike Jackson following Sean Dyche’s departure.

Burnley are said to have offered the defender fresh terms “on more than one occasion” but it now looks increasingly likely that he will leave the club this summer.

Speaking on social media after relegation was confirmed, Mee said: “I’m gutted about yesterday - a real shame we couldn't get the job done.

“We had put ourselves into a really good position towards the back end of the season but obviously the whole season wasn't good enough.

"The lads put in a lot of effort, it had been a really tough week and I think it took its toll a little bit. Fair play to Leeds, going away from home and winning on the last day of the season.

"I just want to thank you guys for your support throughout the season - I know it has been a difficult one.

"These past weeks have been some of the best I've seen. Home and away, the atmospheres have been fantastic and we've really appreciated the backing you have given us.

"It's been an emotional ride this year and we'll see what the future brings.”

Defensive partner James Tarkowski is also set to leave the Clarets at the end of his deal and has been linked with Everton and Newcastle in recent weeks.

Keep up to date with our Burnley coverage on social media by joining us on Facebook and Twitter