Jim Jefferies was talking to Aberdeen today as he stepped up his bid to keep Eoin Jess.

The Bradford City manager has opened discussions with the Scottish international, whose three-month loan spell runs out on March 28.

Jefferies is hopeful that he can persuade Jess, linked with several clubs north and south of the border, to commit himself for next season.

The midfielder has hinted that he could stay with the Bantams until the end of their Premiership adventure in May - and the manager is pushing to make his stay permanent.

Jefferies said: "The initial talks went quite well but obviously there are things to think over on both sides. I'm planning to speak to Aberdeen next and see how we progress from there.

"Eoin is under contract to the end of the month here which goes past our transfer deadline and up to the Scottish one.

"He has intimated that he is happy to wait until the end of the season before making up his mind and he does have one or two options.

"But I've told him that although we're going through a period of change now, we are ambitious for next season.

"Eoin obviously wants to be part of something that has the chance of being successful and I believe that's what we can offer him.

"If you look at the side we had on Saturday, it was a strong one and we played very well as a unit. With a few additions coming in, it could be a successful squad.

"And I want Eoin to be involved in that. He is a good player who has done well, he is dangerous on the ball and gives us extra attacking options."

Jess, who has scored twice in nine Premiership appearances, has been linked with Hibernian and Charlton although rumours of a Rangers swoop have been laughed off.

City's transfer-listed goalkeeper Matt Clarke last night completed his on-off loan move to Bolton. It could lead to an eventual £3m transfer.

The First Division side resurrected the deal which Clarke rejected a month ago after failing to agree personal terms.

His departure until the end of the season means that teenager Jon Worsnop will be back-up keeper to Gary Walsh for the next three matches while Aidan Davison is suspended.

Jefferies said: "Bolton have got a few injuries and Matt needs the games - he hasn't played in the first team since December. He has knuckled down recently, although he has been suffering from a groin strain.

"Matt still wants his move but playing for Bolton will put him in the shop window again. And we've got an agreement that we can recall him if anything happens to Aidan."