Gareth Barry

Burnley have reportedly extended the contract of veteran forward Aaron Lennon according to reports from England.

Lennon was a transfer target for Leeds City with the Sun reporting in February that the veteran forward was in line for a return to his childhood club in the summer.

However, Burnley have put a stop to the move by triggering the extra year clause in his contract rather than allowing him to leave on a free this summer. Lennon began his career with Leeds in the early 2000s staring as a teenage forward before making the move to Tottenham in 2005.

At Tottenham, the forward became a regular starter for the club terrorizing opposing defences with his breathtaking speed and dribbling abilities.

His performances led to his call-up into the England national team where he appeared in a few tournaments. After a long successful stint at Tottenham, the 32-year-old moved to Everton and placed a few seasons before signing for Burnley last season.

His time at Burnley has been mixed with the forward missing games due to injuries but has generally performed well when called upon.

It is understood that Burnley boss Sean Dyche is a fan of the player and wants him to remain at the club ahead of next season.

Leeds coach Marcelo Bielsa is keen on the forward as he has put serious considerations at the prospect of bringing the player back to Elland Road. Lennon made 45 appearances for Leeds during his stint at the club.

With this news of Burnley triggering the clause this would end all hopes of Leeds bringing the player in the summer.

Leeds could still move for the player in the transfer window as they look to recover from the disappointment of missing out of Premier League promotion.