Andy Friend says he has held "really positive talks" with Connacht about extending his three-year stint in charge of the province.
The Australian replaced Kieran Keane at the Sportsground in 2018, but his contract runs out in the summer.
As many as 23 of the playing squad find themselves in the same position with contract talks pushed out due to the pandemic, but Friend is hopeful of remaining in Galway.
"Having some really positive conversations with the CEO Willie Ruane at the moment," Friend said during today's virtual press conference.
"All I can say is it is very positive. We do love it here, my wife and I are very comfortable here so hopefully some positive news will come in the not too distant future."
Connacht host Ospreys in Sunday’s rearranged Pro14 fixture, and while Bundee Aki is in a race to feature after a recent knee issue, he is expected to be fit for the upcoming Six Nations campaign.
"He’s close," said Friend.
"He’s doing some running this week. If he is fit we’ll make him available this week There’s still a question mark on that, but he’s not too far away."
Sammy Arnold meanwhile has been ruled out of action until April after undergoing surgery on a chest muscle injury.
The 24-year-old has featured in every game this campaign, while Ben O’Donnell and back rower Sean O’Brien are following the return to play protocols after suffering knocks against Munster.
