Stoke manager Tony Pulis has confirmed the Potters are close to securing the long-term future of highly-rated central defender Ryan Shawcross.
Pulis revealed talks are at an advanced stage with the 22-year-old and hopes an agreement may be sealed within the next few days.
Shawcross has become a pivotal figure for the Potters since his move from Manchester United two seasons ago and his emergence has been watched closely by a number of clubs.
"I have had long discussions with Ryan over his future and I am delighted that he sees his future here," Pulis told the club's website.
"There has been a lot of speculation surrounding Ryan, but we have made it quite clear that he is going nowhere and we are delighted to be in a position now where we can secure his future.
"He is an exceptionally talented young lad who had an important part to play at this football club, so I am confident that he will be a major influence upon what we are aiming to achieve."
Shawcross, who has been capped at England Under-21 level, completed a permanent move from Manchester United to the Britannia Stadium in January 2008 after an impressive six-month loan spell.
"I am very happy at Stoke and I always saw myself being here for some time to come, so I am delighted we are very close to coming to an agreement," said Shawcross.
"The fact that discussions have gone so well with the manager means I have given the green light to my agent to have further discussions on a new deal."


GERRARD19 : "...WOW I celebrated that Portsmouth goal like they were my team and I beleive they have enough quality to survive with the players they have. I only watched the last ten minutes so dont know how well they played throughout ..." view full comment
Mark Hughes is on the shortlist to become Turkey's new coach, while Kieron Dyer's West Ham nightmare will cost them close to £30million.
More from today's press
TEAMtalk Towers veteran Rob Mullarkey takes a trip down memory lane as he fondly remembers and describes his Famous Five World Cup moments.
Read today's Column
reza78 (Manchester United) : "...Manchester United will sell Vidic to Real Madrid in the summer with Karim Benzema coming to Old Trafford. Smalling will be the new star defender! Also, Frank Ribery will join Real and David Silva to United. ..." view full rumour

| LATEST PHOTOS | TT COLUMN | COMPETITIONS |
![]() |
|
|
| Go to the Gallery | WC Famous Five - Rob Mullarkey | Free to enter! |
Free Bet | Casino | Poker | Bingo
Your Comments
corkstar (Stoke City fan)
"SAF didnt want him 2leave so they reckon but big ryan wanted 1st team football, they ave a sell on clause and 1st option on him."
joec8 (Sheffield Wednesday fan)
"Didn't realise he actuially came from United. Why are there constant speculations that United want him back??"
All comments on this story
The Stoke City Your Say main pageThe General Your Say main page