WIGAN Athletic manager Paul Jewell is interested in signing an extended contract to end reports linking him with Middlesbrough.
The Teessiders are looking for a replacement for new England boss Steve McClaren, but Jewell has already held talks about a new deal with chairman Dave Whelan.
Jewell said: "I'm already planning for next season. I guess there will always be speculation linking me and others with various clubs, but I'm very happy here.
"It's flattering to be linked with various jobs, but I want to take Wigan on."
Jewell confirmed that the Latics have turned down a verbal offer of é2m from Tottenham for want-away full back Pascal Chimbonda.
Transfer-listed
Wigan have slapped a é6m prize tag on the transfer-listed right-back.
"I've no problem with a player asking for a transfer, but I'm still annoyed at the way Pascal handed in a written request straight after the Arsenal game," Jewell said. "I thought it was a thank-you letter at first. If people don't want to play here, then they can go."
Jewell wants eight new players as he shapes a squad for next season, and may swoop to bring striker Nathan Ellington back to the JJB Stadium from relegated West Brom.
Wigan have released defender Stephane Henchoz, and will not offer a contract to winger David Thompson, who arrived from Blackburn in January. Midfielder Reto Ziegler has returned to Spurs after his loan spell.
But club captain Matt Jackson will be staying, as Jewell has offered the 35-year- old defender a one-year deal.
How important is Jewell to Wigan's success? Have your say.
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Jewell is absolutely essential. I don't care about Bullard and Chimbonda, but if Jewell went it would be a disaster. He seems to be able to work with Dave Whelan (which is not easy) and has taken us to the top tier of football in this country - and not just hanging on, but challenging the top clubs! Long may he be in charge (and with Dave's help).
Fully agree Malc he is a top top manager and we are very lucky to have him
No ones ever irreplaceable, including PJ.
If he chose to move on, it's the right time for both parties, he's served his time.
Wigan would simply employ a manager such as Curbishly, Dowie, Boothroyd, Martin Allen, Mowbray etc.....
Plenty of quality out there, not that I believe he would go the Boro.
Gets the very best out of average players and it would be a great shame if he left as i see him as one of the best managers around...
Fantastic acheivement. Not a surprise to me, just wish he hadn't had a poor chairman when the chance for Jagger to shine at Bradford was there. Well done and long may the success continue.