STEVE Davis says Crewe will do all they can to keep hold of contract rebel Max Clayton.

The 18-year-old has rejected the offer of a new deal which could force the Alex to sell him in the summer rather than risk a tribunal in 2015.

Linked with Liverpool and Arsenal over recent years and tipped for a big future, Clayton has struggled to live up to the hype this season – drifting in and out of the side.

“I will sit down with him again,” explained Davis.

“We spoke several months ago to try and do something but he didn’t want to.

“We don’t want a situation when his contract is coming to an end.

“I wouldn’t like to think he would go somewhere else in a hurry when he isn’t ready.

“We want him to be a regular in our team and scoring goals, we want the best for Max.”

Clayton was on target in Crewe Under 21’s 3-0 win over Derby on Monday, along with Brendan Daniels and trialist Nathan Ellington.

The former Wigan and West Brom striker, 31, is looking for a fresh start after being released by Ipswich Town.

“I don’t think it’s about money for him,” continued Davis.

“He just wants a chance and we’re a good club for him to get his career back on track.

“If he does well and we think he can improve the team, we’ll see if we can do something.

“He’s only 31 and has a lot to offer.”