Thursday 4 May 2017 06:38, UK
Stoke manager Mark Hughes has confirmed captain Ryan Shawcross will be offered a new contract to extend his stay at the club.
The Independent reported last month that Shawcross had attracted interest from Newcastle, with Magpies boss Rafa Benitez keen to strengthen his squad as they prepare for life back in the Premier League next season.
Shawcross will enter the final year of his contract next season but Hughes insists he remains in his plans.
"There's not an issue, not from our point of view. We certainly want to keep Ryan here if we can," said Hughes.
"We don't usually enter into negotiations until there are 12 months to go.
"Sometimes that can help the players, because sometimes more power goes to the player the closer you get to the end. There are two ways to look at it."
Shawcross was signed from Manchester United on a permanent deal in 2008 after impressing on a season-long loan spell under former manager Tony Pulis.
Watch Stoke v Arsenal on May 13 during the Premier League run-in. Coverage begins on Sky Sports 1 HD at 5:15pm.
