MANAGER Russell Martin believes Jan Bednarek is "very happy" at Saints and hopes that means he will commit to a new Saints contract.
The Polish international has been offered a new deal with just 11 months left on his current terms and transfer interest from other clubs.
Bednarek, 28, was key for Saints in their promotion-winning Championship campaign and boasts 154 matches of Premier League experience.
He played his first 45 minutes of pre-season after an extended break following EURO 2024 in the club's 3-1 win over Montpellier in Spain.
Speaking to the Daily Echo at their training camp, Martin said: "I hope he enjoyed playing in the team that we are. I think they all do.
"Jan's a big character and he's a big bonus to have back. It was nice. He's a top player and as a character, he's one of the biggest ones in the group."
Asked if he thinks Bednarek will sign a new long-term contract, Martin said: "Yeah, I hope so. I think we're in discussions with him now.
"I think he's very, very happy. I don't think he was very happy. Obviously, he left the club for a bit a couple of years ago.
"I think he's very, very happy now and we're very happy with him and hopefully, that means we can continue working together."
Saints star Kyle Walker-Peters has also been offered a new contract by Martin but is assessing his options after helping the club win promotion last season.
Top goalscorer Adam Armstrong was down to his final 12 months but signed a new long-term deal this month, while Jack Stephens saw an automatic extension clause triggered.
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