Carlisle boss Greg Abbott is confident Ian Harte will sign a new deal with the club for next season.

The former Leeds defender joined the Cumbrians in March on a contract until the end of the season and Abbott has offered him a two-year deal.

He told the News and Star: "I have been talking to Ian non stop since Saturday and the feeling I am getting is that we are very, very close.

"He really enjoyed his time here. It won't be easy, and financially he would be a big signing for this football club but the indications are that Ian is going to come and the board is going to back that one."

Meanwhile, Carlisle will welcome Hull (July 21), Middlesbrough (July 25) and Blackpool (July 28) to Brunton Park as part of their preparation for the 2009/10 season.

Abbott's men also face trips to local rivals Penrith (July 10) and Workington (July 11) and will also travel to face his former club Guiseley (July 29).