Head coach Sabri Lamouchi is eager for midfield general Ben Watson to put pen to paper on a new Nottingham Forest deal.
Watson has signed a short-term extension to see out the rest of the season with the Reds, as his current deal is due to run out at the end of this month.
But Lamouchi would like him to stay at the City Ground beyond that, saying talks are ongoing with the 34-year-old.
“Of course, absolutely,” the Frenchman said, when asked if conversations continue to be held.
“He has had an amazing season, and the season is not finished; he wants to stay with us. I want to keep him.
“The club is talking with him to extend his contract - it is done until the end of this season - but also for the future.
“When you have the right players, with the right mentality and they are working for the collective - for the team and for the club - you need to take the right decision.”
Lamouchi often refers to Watson as “the brains” on the pitch.
The former Watford man has produced some of his best form in the Garibaldi this season and has become a key figure under the former Rennes boss.
He has made 37 appearances and scored three goals so far in Forest’s push for promotion.
He missed last weekend’s 1-1 draw at Sheffield Wednesday after picking up a knock in the build-up to the game.
But Lamouchi has said he is fit to face Huddersfield Town on Sunday, in what will be the Reds’ first outing at the City Ground without any fans present.
