Adam Clayton 'Over the Moon' at Prospect of Staying at Leeds United

Leeds United's Adam Clayton has admitted he is optimistic about the possibility of signing a new contract this summer as Neil Warnock builds his new team for the 2012/2013 season.

Warnock is set to wield the axe within the next few weeks as he looks to build a brand new team which is capable of challenging for promotion next season. A number of players contracts expire this summer, but Clayton's deal doesn't end until the summer of 2013.

Club captain Snodgrass and young left-back Aidy White have also been offered new deals, with Clayton and Ross McCormack set to follow.

When speaking to the Yorkshire Evening Post Clayton said:

"I think we're looking towards sorting something out so I'm sure we'll come to an agreement. Hopefully the gaffer wants to keep me on board. If he does then I'd be delighted to stay. I want to stay in his plans and if I can week-in, week-out for Leeds next season then I'll be over the moon."

The 23-year-old has been a regular in the team this season, and at times been instrumental in the victories the Whites have picked up. Originally signed from Manchester City in the summer of 2010, Clayton took a year to find himself into the starting line-up.

As with most emerging stars at Leeds United, Clayton has had his fair share of abuse from the fans. With most of our key players leaving and the team under-performing, the fans have looked to Clayton to produce in every second of every game. There's no doubt at times Clayton has underperformed but if there's any positive to take from this miserable season, it's the emergence of Clayton from nowhere into a key player.

Although it's very early stages it's great to see Clayton wanting to stay. Leeds fans have become accustom to players refusing to sign new deals or leaving a year early.

With Warnock at the helm it seems the key players are at least being asked to sign early on. Clayton has expressed his desire to stay, which for now is a bonus.

Leeds just need Snodgrass, White and McCormack to follow suit and sharpish!