Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has disclosed that the club is in discussions with goalkeeper Joe Hart over a new deal.
He made the announcement speaking on Friday at a press conference to preview Saturday’s home clash with Everton.
He said: “I always said it is important for this club to keep Joe with us.
“He is a very good goalkeeper and not only a very good goalkeeper, he is a very important player for the squad also. So maybe in the next day you will have good news.”
Asked if that meant within 24 hours, Pellegrini said: “I can’t say exactly the amount of hours, but the next day.”
27-year-old Joe Hart joined City in the early phase of his career in 2006; his present contract is due to expire in 2016.
In October 2013, he was dropped to 2nd place by Pellegrini after a series of unusual mistakes and Costel Pantilimon took over as first choice until December.
Although he struggled through last season, he has stepped up since the start of this season and retained fully his position as first choice.
Reports claim Hart is considering a five-year contract.
“Joe is having a very good season. The arrival of Willy Caballero was very important for the club, for Joe, for Willy, for everyone, because he is a very good goalkeeper,” Pellegrini added.
“I think the best way for players to have high performance is when they have important competition. I think that was very useful for him and I am very happy about that.”