Boss Joe Royle says that midfielder Owen Garvan is close to signing a new deal. The Irish youngster's current contract is up at the end of 2006/07.

Royle says he is confident he will keep his squad together for a serious promotion challenge next season, if the Blues don't go up through the play-offs this time around: "We are talking to Jason De Vos and Fabian Wilnis about new contracts and don't expect any problems. Plus, we already have Matt Richards and Scott Barron fixed up, while we are well down the trail with Owen Garvan.

"We are making sure we retain our assets, while our performances and results tell me we are strong enough to take on anyone in this division. If we add, say, three new players in the summer we will be even better equipped.

"Whatever happens over the next few weeks I know I will have a more comfortable summer in the knowledge that we have things in place for the new season, whereas last year it was a big worry as to which players would leave.

"There is a big, positive feel about the place and the ambition is still there, make no mistake about that."

Royle will also hope to seal the permanent signing of Jimmy Juan from Monaco, while a centre-half to push Richard Naylor and Jason De Vos for their places is another likely addition to the squad.

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