Aston Villa captain Steve Staunton is set to sign a new one-year contract with the club.
Staunton is close to agreeing a new deal which would keep him at Villa until the summer of 2004.
The former Republic of Ireland captain is no longer guaranteed an automatic first team place, given the form of Olof Mellberg and Ronny Johnsen.
But Villa manager Graham Taylor is an admirer of the former Liverpool player and the influence he has in the dressing room and on the club's youngsters.
Taylor said: "We are close to agreeing a deal with Steve and I would be very happy if he stays at the club. He is the ultimate professional and is a great influence on other players".
Villa are also racing to have loan signing Joey Gudjonsson available for Tuesday's Premiership clash at Middlesbrough.
Villa have still to get international clearance for the Real Betis player and have a 5 p.m. deadline today which must be met if he is to be available to face Steve McClaren's side.
PA