STEVE McCLAREN believes Mark Schwarzer will sign a new contract amid suggestions from his agent that the goalkeeper has rejected the latest deal offered to him, writes Paul Fraser.

Schwarzer is out of contract in the summer and has consistently been linked with moves to Manchester United, while champions Arsenal are also known admirers.

Yesterday the Australian's advisor, Barry Silkman, claimed his player was unimpressed by Middlesbrough's last offer two weeks ago.

But McClaren insists Schwarzer remains the man he wants to play in goal for the club next season and has left negotiations in the capable hands of chairman Steve Gibson and Keith Lamb.

The Middlesbrough boss believes the board will eventually land their man.

"We want Mark to stay and the chairman and Keith Lamb are negotiating with Mark and his representatives," he said.

"I'm confident he'll sign. If we want a player they do everything to get him. Whether he is a new signing or a player we already have here, they normally do everything to get the players to sign."

McClaren is desperate for Schwarzer to commit his future to the club, saying: "He is vital to our progress. I would certainly regard him in the top four keepers in the Premiership, without a doubt."

But Silkman claimed: "Contrary to reports, there are no on-going talks regarding Mark.

"An offer of a new contract came though two weeks ago.

"Since then there has been absolutely no approach from either Keith Lamb or Steve Gibson.

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