Diao close to new Stoke deal
03 Jul 2009 - 12:15:32
Stoke City midfielder Salif Diao is close to agreeing a new contract to remain at the Britannia Stadium.
The 32-year-old Senegal international is out of contract and had been interesting several unnamed European clubs, according to his agent.
However, representative Gary Mellor now claims the former Liverpool midfielder is ready to accept a new deal to stay with the Potters.
"I have had long discussions with (chief executive) Tony Scholes, (manager) Tony Pulis and Salif and we are 99 per cent there," Mellor told The Sentinel.
"Salif loves playing for Tony Pulis and has a great respect for him.
"He has had offers from Italy and France, but Tony Pulis has made it clear that Salif is a big part of his plans.
"Salif is very close to committing himself to a further year."
Diao made 20 Premier League appearances for the Potters last season after bouncing back from injury.