Rafa Benitez has confirmed that talks will begin this weekend with respect to extending Sami Hyypia’s contract by a further 12 months. 

“Rick Parry is due to talk to Sami’s agent this weekend, and we hope everything will then be finished.” said the Spaniard.

Hyypia has been a regular throughout the season despite his advancing years, but with Daniel Agger out for the remainder of the season, Rafa has opted to keep the Finn for one final hurrah as he celebrates 10 years at Anfield.

The news will come as a bitter blow for Fulham and Newcastle United who were hoping to sign the experienced defender this summer, along with Gary Megson’s Bolton Wanderers.