Burnley could lose Michael Keane on a free

Premier League minnows Burnley could reportedly keep defender Michael Keane for the final year of his contract, should they fail to receive a huge bid for his signature.

The 24-year-old had been the standout performer for the Clarets in the recently concluded league season as they managed to avoid the drop by a considerable margin.

According to The Mirror, the Clarets could hold onto the services of Keane for another year, if Manchester United fail to match their valuation of around £25m.

The Red Devils currently have a 25 percent sell-on clause on the player's contract which could lower the price further, but despite this, the club are reluctant to accept to the Clarets' demands.

As a result, the Lancashire outfit are likely to play hardball with the player's situation with chairman Mike Garlick citing that the Premier League survival is the main aim.

“Let's roll it forward a year - what's the prize for staying up again, another £120-130m. So if we miss out on one or two fees and get that, I know what I'd take," he told The Mirror.

"The most important thing for the fans to know is that we don't actually have to sell any player. Going forward it's got to be on our terms and terms that are right for us. Do we need to sell anyone? No."

Keane has earned the most minutes in the Clarets shirt this season, and his performances have been rewarded with a place in the England national setup.

The former United graduate played his first two games for the Three Lions earlier in March, and he will doubt want to improve his chances of making the World Cup squad by staying put in a familiar surrounding.