JAY Rodriguez is closing in on a new Clarets contract, after manager Eddie Howe made securing the striker’s services his number one priority on taking charge.

The 21-year-old’s current deal is due to expire in the summer.

But, fresh from his England Under 21s debut, Howe is hoping to finalise new terms for the homegrown star “sooner rather than later”.

Rodriguez had already started talks with former boss Brian Laws, and was left in limbo when the 48-year-old was sacked in December.

But Howe has wasted no time in re-opening negotiations with the Burnley-born forward’s agent.

“It’s something we picked up on as soon as we got here,” said the Clarets boss.

“As soon as we were made aware that he was out of contract at the end of the season it became number one on our priority list.

“We’re very keen for Jay to stay, and I think I speak on behalf of everyone at the club in saying that.

“We’ve been very impressed by him since we came in and we’re sure he has got a really good future in the game.

“Hopefully we can come to an agreement sooner rather than later.

“I think it’s quite close, so hopefully we can get it done.

"Negotiations have been underway for some time, so hopefully we will have some news soon.”

Of Rodriguez’s performance from the bench of England U21s 1-0 friendly defeat in Italy, Howe added: “The half an hour he got was great and a fantastic experience for him, and one that I’m sure will make him an even better player.”

And he was pleased to Chelsea loanee Jack Cork perform well in a relatively unfamiliar central defensive role.

“He played there for Southampton quite a bit. It’s not his natural position but it’s definitely another string to his bow and a position that he can play because he’s a good read of the game and technically very good,” said Howe.

“It’s a position he could excel in given a run, but he’s also done extremely well for us in midfield.

“If we have players that can play in two or three positions, though, that certainly adds to your options and means you can change things.

“Jay is another one who can play in a couple of positions.”