[Mighty T.A.L.]

Burley: Best deal very close

George Burley feels young striker Leon Best is close to agreeing a new contract at Southampton.

Best's present deal expires in the summer, but he has been offered terms to remain on the South Coast.

Saints boss Burley has been pleased with the forward's form in recent weeks and hopes Best will sign a new deal.

"Leon is out of contract, but we have been in talks over the last couple of months and hopefully we are very close to agreeing a new deal," Burley told the Daily Echo.

Meanwhile, Saints have confirmed that defender Darren Powell has signed a new contract at St Mary's.

Powell has been given a one-year extension by Burley, rather than a previously reported two-year deal.

Injuries have restricted Powell to just 10 appearances this season, but the stopper's experience is valued by Burley.

Source: Skysports