Paul Buckle believes that Jake Howells will pen a new deal to stay at Luton Town.
The Wales Under-21 midfielder is currently out of contract with the Kenilworth Road club and while nine other Hatters have left this summer as free agents after their deals expired, the manager is confident that the 20-year-old will report back for pre-season training on Monday.
"I'm sure Howells will be here next season," Buckle said. "Jake's a winner and he loves Luton, he's told me that on the phone.
"I'm confident he'll put pen to paper very soon.
"I spoke with him [on Monday] and I'm happy with what I've heard."
The departure of Keith Keane, who left for League One Preston North End earlier this month, leaves Howells as the longest serving Luton players with 183 appearances, since coming through the academy to make his bow in 2008.
Last season he was selected to play for Wales U21 - despite having previously played for England C - and has gone on to win four caps for the young Dragons.
Buckle said: "Howells is important because he had an excellent season, so I'm really keen for him to stay at the club and from what I heard from him, it's all good."
