Hearts midfielder Miguel Pallardo looks set to pen an extension to his deal at Tynecastle, according to the player's Valencia-based representative.

Thje 28-year-old's current contract expires at the end of the season, however Jambos head coach Robbie Neilson has previously stated "we want to keep him", while the Spaniard is thought to be content with life in Gorgie.

Pallardo's agent, Clive Jagger, has directly contacted Hearts director of football Craig Levein and hopes to arrive in Scotland for renewal talks by the beginning of next months. The former Spain under-21 international has played 14 times for the runaway Championship leaders, including a man of the match display in the 2-0 win over Rangers last November, and scored his first goal for the club against Alloa in January.

Jagger said: "I think we are coming close to a time when we need to discuss things and we would hope to have a chat with Craig [Levein] in the next two or three weeks. "However, I would suggest we are very comfortable with the prospect of Miguel renewing with the club and, should promotion be confirmed, playing in the Scottish Premiership.

"Obviously, the terms need to be right for everyone, but Miguel is extremely happy at Hearts and has really kick-started his career in Scotland. The feeling I get is that there is a desire to get a deal done from all parties."

Spanish club Espanyol, managed by Sergio Gonzalez, a former teammate and long-time admirer of Pallardo, made an informal enquiry regarding the player's availability at the tail end of last year but were told he was not for sale during the January transfer window. And, while further interest from his homeland is expected, it appears likely Pallardo will extend his stay in the capital. Adam Eckersley, Jason Holt, Gary Oliver and Scott Robinson's deals also expire this summer, while defender Brad McKay has already penned a pre-contract with St Johnstone