Ronald Koeman has indicated that although he is not against new contract talks, he fels its not the right time at present.

Responding to press reports that Saints are about to open negotiations with him about a new contract, the Dutch manager has said that with important games coming up now is not the time for any distractions.

It's too early to discuss that," he said.

"I had several meetings with the board in the last two weeks but not about my contract.

"I don't think it's the right moment to talk about it. There's still a long time to go. Maybe something for after the summer, not this season."

A little bit disappointing for Saints supporters who would love Koeman to sign a new deal sooner than later, but although Koeman is probably trying to play down the rumours and concentrate on the task ahead on the field, this is something that won't die down quietly.

However it could be that yes Koeman will play it down as he knows that if he doesnt sign a new deal soon then more rumours will start, but behind the scenes negotiations continue quietly and that is the best way.

Photo: Action Images

abingdonsaint added 11:41 - Sep 19 Don't think it has anything to do with distractions. More about RK, rather sensibly, keeping his options open. I believe he will see out his contract, he invariably does, so the Holland rumours etc don't concern me in the slightest. He may well stay with us longer, but he won't commit to anything yet in case something like Barcelona is a possibility in a years time. Patience.....no rush!

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DPeps added 12:42 - Sep 19 He was never going to decide this early. Clearly a lot depends on how we perform this season, as this will affect whether RK wants to stay longer and how desirable he is to other clubs. If we do have another good season then our transfer activity next summer will also determine his decision. If Ron's stock rises further then I doubt he'll be happy to extend his contract if what's required is a rebuilding job each summer.

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A1079 added 12:57 - Sep 19 Don't think it has anything to do with distractions, I suspect as someone else has said, it is not priority for him right now, he doesn't need to and he will wait to see what options there are. In reality, I don't think he has any intention of staying beyond his contract. I assume the club started this contract talk, but I think they have got the timing wrong and making it public at this stage is misjudged.

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corkcitysaint added 17:32 - Sep 19 Ron is an honourable man and he will see out his current contract. Honestly, I can't see him committing to anything beyond that, certainly not at this stage. As much as I would love him to stay with us, Barcelona and the Dutch national side will always be his ambition.
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