Wolves try to reach deal over Max Clayton

Wolves are locked in talks with Crewe over compensation for Max Clayton as they look to avoid a tribunal hearing.

The clubs are in dialogue about the striker – who turns 20 today – after Kenny Jackett confirmed he wants to keep him at Molineux following a successful trial.

Crewe are due compensation because out-of-contract Clayton is under 24, came through their youth system and was offered a new deal.

He turned down a three-year contract offer at Gresty Road and also went on trial at Sunderland last month. But Wolves are keen to sign him.

"We're speaking to Crewe, not myself personally but the powers that be are talking to Crewe," said head coach Jackett.

"There isn't anything to say, it's a little bit of back and forth at the moment. There's nothing conclusive."

Should Clayton sign for Wolves without an agreement with Crewe the case would go to a tribunal. But Jackett is eager to avoid that to help preserve the relationship between the two clubs.

He said: "It would commit us to a tribunal which we wouldn't be able to control. That's the bad side.

"You could estimate it and say 'maybe this or maybe that', but it is better if the two clubs come to an agreement rather than go to a tribunal.

"Neither club could control that and there's no guarantee they would be happy with the outcome. That's the system.

"Crewe are one of our local clubs and it would be better if we were all on the same page."

Crewe boss Steve Davis has already spoken about forging closer links between the clubs and Jackett is keen.

He said: "They are good people there and have a tried and trusted system of producing players. We would be happy with a situation developing and now we're not in their division, it could be beneficial for both."