GARY Rowett has warned Robbie Weir that he won't wait all summer for him to sign a new contract at Burton Albion.
The 25-year-old midfielder's two-year deal expires at the end of the month.
Along with Damien McCrory, Weir was offered a new contract last summer – but both, as is their right, waited to see if a bigger club came in for their services.
Rowett wants to avoid a similar situation to that which the Brewers found themselves in three years ago when Jacques Maghoma waited until July to sign a deal.
"I'm keen to avoid that with all the signings," said the Albion boss, who led the club to a second successive play-off campaign this season.
"Like Damo, Robbie's had a deal on the table for a year and he's obviously not signed that deal yet.
"As a club we do what we can to keep players.
"Sometimes, if they want to see what options they've got you have to accept that."
While moving for free between clubs is part of the game, Rowett has warned Weir he will need to make up his mind before too long.
"If players hang around too long they might find these contracts are no longer available," he said. "We like to do our business quite early.
"But having said that, there's no exact timeline on anything."
Weir would be a loss to the Brewers after two outstanding seasons in black and yellow.
His energy from midfield has been a vital part of the two play-off sides and should he leave, Rowett, after sealing a deal to keep Lee Bell at the club, will need to find a replacement.
"He's shown great commitment to the cause," said the manager. "We'll have a look at what's out there and see what alternatives there are."
