Roy Keane's adviser today said there was no rush for the Manchester United skipper to negotiate a new contract.
But solicitor Michael Kennedy revealed he hopes contract talks will be opened soon on a deal that could keep Keane at Old Trafford until 2005.
Keane's contract still has 18 months to run and Kennedy said: "There have been no negotiations as yet. Negotiations have not started but we hope they will begin soon".
Manchester United chief executive Peter Kenyon remains hopeful both Keane and England captain David Beckham will soon agree new deals.
"We have been in discussions with David and his agents for several months and they have been pretty extensive," he said. "We want him to stay and so does he - and we are all hopeful. We are happy we've gone as far as we can and hope he will sign - for all our sakes we would like to get this thing drawn to a close".
On Republic of Ireland skipper Keane, Kenyon said: "We know when his contract is up and we'll address the matter well in advance".
PA