Arca eyeing Black Cats extension

The Argentine has become a fans' favourite since joining The Black Cats in a £3.5 million move from Argentinos Juniors in July 2000.

Manager Mick McCarthy is keen to sign the South American to a new contract, with the club opening talks with the left-sided player.

With Sunderland keen to extend the player's stay, Arca has admitted it is in his interest to stay on and help The Black Cats back into The Premiership.

"I have the rest of this season and next on my contract and the club have already been in talks about an extension," Arca said.

"But they haven't offered anything yet and we will have to see what happens at the end of the season.

"I am looking to be here and I would like to sign another contract.

"The way things are going for me at the moment I would be very happy to stay here - especially if we get promotion.

"Being back in The Premiership is one of the things I must think about - but that is only one of many different things I must consider.

"And if things keep going as they have then, yes, I am sure I will sign another contract."

Meanwhile, The Black Cats have reportedly been linked with a move for Rangers striker Steven Thompson.

The former Dundee United hit-man has only returned to training this month after being sidelined for most of the season with a serious knee injury.

It remains to be seen if the North East outfit will make a move for Thompson, with the fate of which division the club may be playing in likely to be a major factor.

In other news, McCarthy has told four young players that their contracts at Sunderland will not be renewed in the summer.

Craig James, Simon Ramsden, Chris Scott and Chris Black will all be looking for pastures new ahead of next season - once their deals run out in June.