Dwight Gayle's contract discussions remain "ongoing" as the former Crystal Palace centre-forward heads towards the end of his existing deal.
Steve Bruce has hinted that he is interested in extending Gayle's deal despite a lack of game-time in recent weeks.
With Bruce already admitting there will be very little to spend in the next transfer window losing Gayle for nothing would leave a big space in the striking department and add pressure to bring in a worthwhile replacement.
The 31-year-old has been linked with Fulham in the last six months while Chronicle Live understands that there are clubs abroad interested in taking him on a Bosman deal, with one tempting offer being prepared by an unnamed club in the build-up to the next window.
With 133 career goals in the bag, Gayle will be a sought after free transfer when the window reopens and clubs struggle to make cash bids.
Gayle has started just one game this season, in the 2-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, but may get a run in the team due to Callum Wilson's hamstring injury which could rule him out until April.
Gayle, Andy Carrroll and Jacob Murphy are all yet to be offered a new contract.
Bruce, speaking at his weekly Press conference ahead of the trip to face Man United on Sunday night, said: "There are a number of players with contracts up.
"And Dwight is one of them.
"There will be conversations to be had over the next few weeks.
"I am sure."
Bruce stated that the pandemic has not helped planning for the 2021/22 season.
The former Wigan Athletic and Aston Villa manager reflected: "We are in the middle of Covid, and in the middle of trying to secure our Premier League status.
"So discussions will be ongoing I am sure."
