San Francisco 49ers general manager Trent Baalke is hopeful that running back Frank Gore will agree a new deal with the club.
The 31-year-old is out of contract with the 49ers at the end of the season, but no deal has yet been agreed, leaving the possibility that the back could test the free-agent market in March.
Baalke told CSNBayArea.com: "We sure hope not. He understands what he means to this organisation. He would certainly like to be back, and we would certainly like to have him back. Now, whether we can make that a reality or not, time will tell.
"You have to look at the situation. Frank is going to want to discuss his role, and what that role is going to be moving forward.
"What is the contract itself going to look like? We can both want each other's company, but to make that happen, there are hurdles that are going to have to be crossed."
Gore has recorded 962 rushing yards and four touchdowns this season.
Simon Sinclair
