Stoke City hopeful over Steven N'Zonzi deal

Stoke City chief executive Tony Scholes has said that he is hoping to agree a new contract with Steven N'Zonzi this summer.

The French midfielder has just 12 months left on his existing deal at the Britannia Stadium and is reported to have handed in transfer requests in the previous two close-seasons.

However, Scholes has suggested that the 26-year-old may be settling in the Potteries, which could lead to him signing a new deal.

He is quoted by The Express as saying: "If his football's anything to go by, then it absolutely is reason to be positive we can get something done.

"He had a magnificent season last year - in fact he's had three very good seasons with us, even if perhaps the last was his best.

"He's playing with a smile on his face. He looks very happy and we would very much like to renew his contract."

N'Zonzi joined Stoke from Blackburn Rovers in 2012.