Mark Hughes optimistic Stoke will agree new deal with Marko Arnautovic
Thursday 7 January 2016 17:09, UK
Mark Hughes is optimistic Stoke City will soon agree a contract extension with star Austrian midfielder Marko Arnautovic.
The 26-year-old, who has 18 months remaining on his deal, rejected Stoke's initial contract offer and is understood to be seeking a significant pay rise.
However, Hughes confirmed negotiations are ongoing and is optimistic the Potters' top scorer will commit his future to the club.
"There are negotiations still on going," Hughes revealed, speaking at his press conference to preview this weekend's FA Cup game against Doncaster Rovers.
"Where agents get involved it's usually a case of us starting at one end, them at the other and us finding somewhere in the middle. Hopefully it'll be sorted out."
When asked if he planned to be active in the January transfer market, Hughes said he would be willing to do a deal if the right player comes along and refused to rule out a move for Porto defensive midfielder Giannelli Imbula.
"There are lots of names being bandied about - that's one of them. We are interested in good players," Hughes said.
"There isn't an urgency to go in the market, but if good players become available, we'll have an interest.
"We're always in the market for good players but I don't there is a massive urgency to get in there. However, if someone good is available we'll have a look.
"We don't look for guys to fill the squad as we have a good squad. We are only really looking for top quality players.
"Every deal is different; they're dependent on the players themselves, the club and how easy they are to deal with and a number of other factors.
"Sometimes it can be good to do busy but on other occasions it is best to keep your powder dry and wait until the summer when it's less frantic."
One player who appears destined to stay at the Britannia Stadium is striker Peter Crouch, though Hughes did reveal there has been interest in the former England international.
"It is true to say that there have been a few enquiries about Peter Crouch if I'm honest but he's one I want to keep here," Hughes said.
"He came on the other night and he's very much part of what I'm looking to do here."
