Latics look to keep Roberts

By Peter ORourke  

Latics look to keep Roberts

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Wigan are hoping to tie down Jason Roberts to a new long-term deal.

The powerful striker has just over a year to run on his current contract and reports have linked with him a possible move away from The JJB Stadium.

Manchester City are thought to be monitoring his situation and Wigan are keen to ward off any suitors by offering Roberts a new deal.

"Jason's contract has a year to go and hopefully in the summer we can sit down and give him a new one," said Wigan boss Paul Jewell.

"That's what we want to do. We want to keep our better players, and also at the same time improve the squad."

Meanwhile, Latics defender Pascal Chimbonda claims Manchester United and Liverpool are tracking him.

The full back has been a huge success in his debut season at Wigan and has established himself as one of the best defenders in The Premiership.

The 27-year-old admits he is flattered to be linked with United and Liverpool.

"I know what I owe Wigan," Chimbonda told the News of the World. "But I also know big clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United are very interested in signing me.

"It gives me great pleasure. I have not yet received any offers but I will study them carefully when I do."