ROBBIE Mustoe is set to hold talks on a new deal to stay at Middlesbrough.

The 31-year-old, who marks his testimonial tomorrow with a clash against German club Borussia Dortmund, is keen to stay at the Riverside Stadium when his contract runs out at the end of the coming season.

Mustoe said: "I have had talks with the manager about a new deal and we will be sitting down to discuss it in more detail.

"My contract runs out at the end of the season and I can leave for free under the Bosman ruling. But to be honest, I don't want to leave the club.

"I am settled here and hopefully can get a new deal sorted out.

"I have spent ten years here and I have enjoyed it. You never know how long you can keep playing at the top level, but I feel I have still got a lot to offer and want to keep going.

"That's why I will be happy to commit myself to the club and to share in what I think are going to be some good times ahead."

Mustoe firmly believes Boro's move in the transfer market this summer could help lead to better times for the club after two seasons of mid-table disappointment.

"We have been spending money to bring in quality players and that's what we have to do," he said. "I have been impressed by Paul Okon. He is a good passer and you can tell he's played at a high level.

"We need to strengthen our squad because when we have had injuries in the past, it's been a struggle for us. We need to be able to compete with a bigger squad.

"I know there's going to be a lot of competition for places, but that's what we need. I feel we can start to challenge at the top end of the table and I want to play my part in that.

"I feel as fit and strong as I ever have done and I am still very ambitious to get success for the club.