United withdrew from negotiations with Marques' advisors on Tuesday after failing to reach agreement over an extension to Marques' deal at Elland Road.

The centre-back is seeking a three-year contract to replace the 12-month deal which expires at the end of this season but Leeds are thought to be unwilling to stretch beyond a two-year agreement.

Marques turned 30 in September and would be approaching the age of 34 by the time a three-year deal expired, and United have opted to delay further discussions until after the League One season concludes next month.

Leeds revealed in a statement that "differences in valuation" had led to their decision to suspend discussions with Marques' representatives, and sources at Elland Road have indicated that the player's wage demands are contributing to the deadlock.

United also confirmed that they were aware of rumours suggesting other clubs were queuing up to bid for Marques when his current deal ends in the summer, but despite the various links – including claims of interest from Watford and Crystal Palace – the defender is not thought to have received any firm offers from elsewhere.

It is anticipated, however, that opportunities in the Championship will be forthcoming when the issues of promotion and relegation from the division are resolved.

Marques will be eligible to leave Elland Road on a free transfer if United fail to conclude contract talks successfully, but the club are still hopeful of reaching an agreement which will extend Marques' career with Leeds into a fourth season.

In their statement issued on Tuesday, United said: "The club had hoped that Rui's future would have been secured by now.

"However, the respective differences in valuation, influenced by alleged interest from clubs already in the Championship, have seen us not achieve our aim.

"We still remain positive that we will be able to retain the player's services when we know what division we are going to be playing in."