Johnson on verge of new deal

It appears that, after the persisting rumours that linked Andy Johnson with a move to Wigan Athletic in exchange for Hugo Rodallega, the striker will be offered a new deal at Craven Cottage, and on the terms he has expressed as acceptable.

Manager Martin Jol was speaking ahead of Fulham's visit to Manchester City on Saturday and admitted that, while there was interest in the former Crystal Palace forward, he was never going to let him go.

"I said to Andy you will stay here whatever happens and that probably wasn't ideal for him," Jol stated.

"But it was good for me because we can now get on with the job and hopefully he can play for us and score goals.

"It is more to do with his situation. His contract is up at the end of the season and he is a bit insecure about his future."

Jol then went on to confirm just why there has been difficulties in the tying down Johnson, and also stated a new offer has been put on the table, despite the fact that age is getting the better of him.

"I don't think there is any problem with him so we will find a solution. And I think he wants to stay as well."

"We have made him an offer a couple of times and in the latest stage we even offered him what he wanted and that was two and a half years.

"So we are close. The sticking point was a year difference."