Andy Carroll has moved a step closer to agreeing a new contract with Newcastle United, according to The Northern Echo.
The striker is due to become a free agent on June 30 but will discuss a short-term extension so that he can see out the Premier League campaign.
However, according to the report, the experienced striker is also keen to strike a deal for next season as well.
It's claimed that Carroll is willing to accept a 'pay-as-you-play' deal in order to agree a deal.
The 31-year-old moved back to Tyneside on a similar arrangement last summer following an injury-hit spell time with West Ham United.
That deal was based on a low weekly wage that was topped up by appearance-based incentives.
Any deal to extend Andy Carroll's contract is likely to have to wait until a takeover of the club has been agreed.
But based on his influence in the dressing room at St James' Park, it's thought that the club could be keen to tie him down to a new deal.
GIVEMESPORT'S Phil Spencer says...
A move to extend Andy Carroll's contract at Newcastle United seems like a bit of a no-brainer.
The striker has had a number of injury problems in the past which will certainly be a concern, but that's where the 'pay-as-you-play' deal comes into effect.
If the club are able to pay him a low basic wage in addition to a number of appearance-based incentives, then it means that there's little financial risk to the club.
We all know what Carroll is capable of in the pitch, and that means that extending his contract has to be a priority.
Even if he only makes a handful of appearances, it seems worthwhile.