Adelaide United are hoping to re-sign vice-captain Lucas Pantelis. Despite contract negotiations stalling, the Reds would be keen to retain the midfielder who has served the club so well since its inception in 2005.

With the prospect of other clubs joining in pre-contract talks next month, it would wise for Adelaide hierarchy to try and wrap up a new deal as soon as possible.

The 27-year olds agent Lou Sticca said the Reds had moved quickly to try and re-sign his client who is keen to remain in the City of Churches.

"Adelaide United have moved early to capture Lucas' signature," said Sticca.

"Lucas' preference is to obviously stay in Adelaide because he's a local and he has all his family there."

To add further to the fact Adelaide need to hold on to Pantelis is the glowing appraisal he received from Reds skipper Travis Dodd after he deputised for him whilst out with injury.

"Lucas has done a tremendous job in the last couple of weeks," Dodd said.

"He leads as well, but it's not only up to him to be a leader out there. Everyone needs to step up to the plate and put their hand up and say 'yes'."