Leeds confident Viduka will stay
( 2001-06-22 16:09 ) (7 )

Leeds United are hopeful of persuading much-coveted Australian striker Mark Viduka to sign a one-year extension to his current contract.

Viduka, who scored 22 goals for Leeds last season, has been linked with a string of European clubs, including Real Madrid and AS Roma.

But Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale said on Thursday the club had opened talks with the Melbourne-born striker and hoped Viduka would sign a one-year extension to his contract which would tie him at Elland Road for the next five years.

"Mark said to me that he's very happy, he's never been as settled anywhere," Ridsdale told BBC radio.

"He appreciates the club took the initiative to talk to him which is what we promised we if he had a successful season.

"Hopefully, matters will be swiftly concluded with confirmation that Mark is not only staying but adding a further year to his contract."