Wilfred Bouma deal is on cards - boss

Apr 14 2008

MARTIN O'Neill is confident Wilfred Bouma will want to sign a new long-term contract at Villa Park.

O'Neill has taken his first steps to securing the Dutchman's future by holding discussions with his agent.

"I have spoken to Freddie's agent. We have the option year, but I want to speak to Freddie. I have been very pleased with him.

"Will he want to stay? You never know until you sit down, but I think he is enjoying himself."

O'Neill was delighted with Bouma's performance at Derby.

"I remember Freddie Bouma making a challenge in the box that could have been dangerous.

"So he did very well there, but once we got the first goal we carried on brilliantly."

Gareth Barry, Ashley Young and Gabby Agbonlahor are all set for talks in the summer to extend their deals.

Barry has two years left on his contract and O'Neill says he is "not surprised" to see him linked to big clubs.

"I have said I will sit down with players who have a couple of years to run on their contracts.''

O'Neill said he had no knowledge of any Chelsea interest in goal-keeper Thomas Sorensen.