Sheffield Wednesday: Owls battle to keep Tom Lees

The Star understands the Clarets have inquired about the centre-half, although no bid has yet to be lodged.

Burnley are thought to be keen on bolstering their backline and may step up their interest in Lees should star defender Michael Keane leave Turf Moor this summer. Sean Dyche’s side recently turned down a club-record £15million offer from top-flight champions Leicester City for Keane.

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It is believed the Foxes will shortly make an improved bid for the former Manchester United youngster.

Lees has been superb at the heart of Wednesday’s rearguard since arriving from Leeds United nearly two years ago. The 25-year-old has established himself as a first-team regular and his stellar performances prompted the club to tie him down to a new long-term deal in July 2015. His present contract is not due to expire for another three years.

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After narrowly missing out on promotion last campaign, the Owls will be reluctant to lose one of their prized assets as they seek to kick on again next term.

“The chairman has told me he doesn’t want to sell players,” said head coach Carlos Carvalhal. “We are trying to improve the team.”

The Portuguese chief wants to keep his squad intact but added: “If you sell one player, you try to bring in another one that’s better.”

Meanwhile, former Owls loanee Daniel Pudil played the full game as Czech Republic lost 2-0 against Turkey in their final European Championship last night.

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