Pearce said: “I’ve been talking to Sylvain for a year and a half about a new contract and, as a man, I love the kid.
“I want him here as a player and will continue trying to persuade him to stay – even if it takes us to the last hour of his contract next summer.
“I don’t think for one minute that when the transfer window is open I can say ?Oh good, I can sell Sylvain Distin and turn over some money’.
“I’d rather keep Sylvain and, if the worst comes to worst and he leaves for nothing next summer, then that’s the way of football these days with Bosman free transfers.
“I’ll do everything in my power to ensure he stays – and anyone else we deem is good enough to stay at the club.”
