Stuart Pearce has confirmed Manchester City have opened contract negotiations with defender Richard Dunne.
The Republic of Ireland international has turned his career around since being disciplined by former boss Kevin Keegan for 'lifestyle' problems.
Having secured most of his young players for the foreseeable future, Pearce is turning his attention to the more senior members of his squad.
And, while negotiations with Joey Barton are yet to progress, talks with skipper Sylvain Distin and promising young defender Micah Richards are currently ongoing, with goalkeeper Nicky Weaver also on the verge of signing a new deal.
"The majority of them are coming along," Pearce said. "We are very, very hopeful with Sylvain that there will be a resolution soon.
"Richard Dunne has opened contract negotiations this week and we are waiting on Micah Richards' agent, so that's ongoing and they're all coming along nicely at the moment."
