Viduka agrees long-term Leeds deal

Australia striker Mark Viduka has ended speculation over a summer switch to one of Europe's elite clubs by agreeing improved terms with Leeds United. "He will put pen to paper on the contract next week," declared chairman Peter Ridsdale.

Ridsdale confirmed that talks with Viduka's advisers had reached a positive conclusion. The Leeds chief spent Thursday discussing the new contract with the striker's solicitor, Rudi Horvat, who flew in from Australia the previous night.

"Mark has agreed a new five-year contract and that is great news for Leeds," Ridsdale confirmed.

"There was always going to be interest from the continent, given his performances for us last season," he added. "Inevitably that makes people look at what the other options are, but we always felt that Mark was happy with the environment we've created for him here."

"He feels comfortable with that and as long as we were seen to be treating him fairly, he is happy to stay."

"Mark will put pen to paper on the contract next week, but I have spoken to him personally and he has assured me the deal is done and he is happy for me to make that public."

Viduka's form for Leeds last season, when he hit 22 goals and helped propel the club to the semi-finals of the Champions' League, led to him being linked with Real Madrid, AC Milan, Internazionale and Roma