CASH-STRAPPED Burnley could be in line for a whopping six-figure windfall thanks to former striker Alan Lee.
Unsettled Lee is reckoned to be on his travels again this summer after Rotherham admitted fielding enquiries from several First Division clubs.
Millers boss Ronnie Moore last night slapped a £3m price-tag on the head of the Republic of Ireland hitman, who scored 16 goals last season to be crowned club Player of the Year.
And thanks to a 25 per cent sell-on clause inserted into Lee's contract when he crossed the Pennines from Burnley in November 2000, any such transfer would net the Clarets £750,000.
In a stagnant transfer market, I understand a more realistic figure is likely to be nearer £250,000 as relegated West Brom firm up a tempting £1m bid for Lee.
But even £250,000 would be a real boost for Clarets boss Stan Ternent as he looks to finance his Turf Moor revolution.
Burnley chairman Barry Kilby today said: "I can confirm there is a knock-on clause in Alan's contract and it would be a nice surprise windfall in our present situation."
Moore added: "It's no secret I still want to keep Alan and unless I get decent money he will be going nowhere.
"But money talks and he only has 12 months left, so we'll have to sit and see what happens."
Lee remains one of Rotherham's lowest earners.
Despite all that, Lee, who this week earned his second international cap as a substitute in Ireland's 2-0 victory over Georgia, is thought to be happy to play out another season before weighing up his options.
But that leaves Rotherham risking losing their main targetman for no fee - something Moore is unlikely to let happen.
Swansea have emerged as rivals for Burnley target Lee Roche, who was recently released by Manchester United.
Swans' boss Brian Flynn is also chasing Clarets winger Brad Maylett, who enjoyed a loan spell at Vetch Field last season.
Meanwhile, Preston have joined Rotherham and Norwich in the race to sign released Burnley defender Lee Briscoe.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article