Middlesbrough boss Gordon Strachan hopes to convince Adam Johnson to stay on Teesside.
Johnson is wanted by the likes of Everton, Chelsea and Manchester United.
The England Under-21 winger becomes a free agent next summer and a cash bid in the New Year could persuade the Teessiders to sell.
"I've seen players whose contracts are up affected by their situation," said Strachan. "But it's not affected this kid.
"We've got some good players. We'll try to bring on the younger players. That's what I love about coaching - making players better."