One of the driving forces behind the potential trade of Randy Moss from New England to Minnesota is the desire of Moss to receive a long term extension, guaranteeing his contract status through the upcoming labor strife.

But according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, no negotiations have taken place as of yet between Minnesota and Moss, making it likely that the trade will be finalized without the new deal that Moss is looking for.

That opens the door to the possibility that Moss could end up leaving the Vikings once the season is complete, preferring to take his chances on the open market. If that happens, Minnesota would almost certainly receive a third round pick as compensation from the league, but it’s doubtful that the Vikings front office will let things get that far, especially if Moss’ presence can convince quarterback Brett Favre to stick it out for another season.

Moss is in the final season of a three year, $27 million deal he signed with the Patriots in 2008.

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