Stoke City manager Mark Hughes admits he would love to secure Peter Crouch to a new contract.
The 33-year old striker's current deal expires at the end of the season but the Potters boss is eager to retain his services.
Former England international Crouch has scored four Premier League goals in nine starts this term, including the equaliser in last week's 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace and in the recent 3-2 win over Arsenal, and Hughes insists he is a key member of his squad at the Britannia Stadium.
"We'd like to keep him and Peter knows that. He knows I am keen to do something," said Hughes ahead of Monday night's home clash with league leaders Chelsea.
"If we tried to replace him it would be very difficult for us and it would be a significant outlay so it's in our own interests to try and re contract him if we can because he is a big part of what we do here."
The Stoke boss added: "His age isn't an issue in my book. Where he is in his career is still a good place and he's an important player for us."
