Manuel Pellegrini: 'Joe Hart close to signing new deal'

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has revealed that he is confident that goalkeeper Joe Hart will sign a new deal with the Premier League champions.

Hart, who has 18 months remaining on his existing contract, admitted earlier this week that he was keen to secure his future at the Etihad Stadium, and ahead of the club's game with Leicester City, Pellegrini stated that a deal was close to being finalised.

The 61-year-old told reporters: "I think it is close. Joe wants to stay here and we want him to be our goalkeeper."

Since signing for City in 2006, Hart has made 275 appearances in all competitions.