Source: Telegraph
Stiliyan Petrov in 'final phase' of agreeing new contract with Aston Villa
Petrov, who has a season to run on a four-year deal, is predicting that an agreement will be struck within the next few weeks.
"It's been going well," the Bulgarian reported. "I think we're in the final phase now. Things could happen in the next few weeks. We are nearly there."
News that the talks are progressing well will come as a pick-me-up for Martin O'Neill, who has had to face up to the possibility of losing Gareth Barry to Liverpool this summer, and reports that Chelsea are interested in Ashley Young.
Although Petrov's future has not been the subject of such fevered speculation as Barry's, the midfielder did raise eyebrows earlier this season by suggesting that his future – and others' – could turn on the club's ability to retain Barry.
"Gareth staying would be a big influence on my future," he said in February. "If we keep Gareth it will also send out a message to all the players that we are in for something big next year."
Petrov's willingness to commit himself to the club will to some extent allay fears that a herd mentality could emerge if Barry leaves.
The 29-year-old has been a late bloomer since signing from Celtic in 2006 for £6.5 million. However, his value to the club has appreciated markedly this season, demonstrated by team-mates and fans, who last week voted him Players' and Supporters' Player of the Season.
