Joe Royle says he is not surprised that Jermaine Wright is joining Leeds despite reported interest from Premiership clubs.

Everton and Southampton have been strongly linked with the 28-year-old midfielder who turned down the offer of a new contract at Portman Road during the summer.

Wright is set to sign for Leeds on Thursday after agreeing personal terms with the Elland Road club, who were relegated from the Premiership last season.




                   Wright - signing for Leeds

He has been at the club's Thorp Arch training ground today having a medical and is reported to have been offered a three year contract.

Talking to the Club website, Town boss Joe said: "Everton and Leeds both spoke to Jamma but I don't think Everton took it much further so I'm not surprised he has joined Leeds.

"I am sorry to see the lad go. We offered him a new deal but he is a free agent and given our financial restrictions, I always felt it would be difficult for us to keep him."

Meanwhile, Joe intends to sit down with Chris Makin either tonight or Wednesday to discuss his future at Town.

The former England U21 international has turned down an initial two month contract as he continues his recovery from a hip injury but has said that doesn't mean he will be quitting Portman Road.