Huntelaar hints at Schalke stay

Dutch forward Klaas Jan Huntelaar has revealed that he could sign a contract extension with Schalke even before the European Championships.

The highly rated striker has one year left on his deal at Veltins Arena and the club chiefs are going to great lengths to try and persuade their star player into signing a new deal.

The 28-year-old recently explained that he planned to wait until after the European Championship before making a decision on his future, but Huntelaar now reveals that everything could be done and dusted even before the Euro 2012.

“We have started negotiations and these have been positive,” Huntelaar was quoted as saying in Bild.

“Everybody knows that I feel well at Schalke. Maybe I’ll make my decision even before the European Championship.”

With his striker partner Raul set to leave at the end of the season, Huntelaar wants assurances that Schalke will reinforce the squad before the start of next season.

Nonetheless, the Dutchman, who celebrated the Bundesliga top goalscorer title with two goals against Werder, admits he believes the club chiefs will fulfill their promise.

“For me it is important that we have a team that can do well in the Champions League. I have confidence in Horst Heldt that he will bring new stars.”