DAVID Bentley is close to signing a new long-term contract with Blackburn Rovers.

Lancashire Telegraph Sport understands that talks between the player and the club are said to be at an 'advanced stage', and official confirmation of the deal is expected within the next 48 hours.

The in-form midfielder, who has been in outstanding form so far this season, still has two years left to run on his existing contract, but Rovers want to extend those terms, partly to protect their own investment, and partly to reward Bentley for the great strides he has made under manager Mark Hughes.

Signed from Arsenal for a bargain £750,000 fee 14 months ago, Bentley has become one of the most influential figures in Hughes' squad this term, scoring six goals and supplying a number of assists.

That kind of scintillating form led to speculation linking him with a move to Manchester United in January, and Hughes recently led the calls for Bentley to be included in the senior England squad.

Securing the player on a new long-term deal will therefore be a major boost for Hughes, who sees Bentley as the man to replace Tugay in the centre of midfield when the Turk decides to call time on his career in England.