However, with the unsigned contract sat on the table for a number of weeks, Notts are already preparing themselves for the worse - with the only other goalkeeper at the club on-loan Charlton man Rob Elliot, who is set to return to the Addicks after Saturday's match against Bury.
|
"We have offered Saul a new deal but, as things stand, he has not signed it," outgoing manager Ian Richardson told the NEP.
"The offer has been on the table for a little while now.
"There is obviously a very real prospect that we could go into the summer without a senior goalkeeper.
"Obviously I can identify potential targets, but it will be up to the new man - whoever that turns out to be - to make the decision. This is one of the main reasons why the situation needs to be sorted out quickly."
Whether Deeney is waiting to see just who that new man is, only time will tell. Whatever the case, you certainly can't blame the keeper for weighing up his options. Should the youngster move on to pastures new, the Magpies would be entitled to compensation as he is aged under 24.
The young Irishman has been one of the shining lights in a dreadful campaign for Notts this year. After a number of seasons spent on the sidelines, the keeper has made the No.1 jersey his own this campaign with a string of superb displays.
Had the recent Supporters' Club survey for Player of the Season been anything like a serious poll, the 22-year-old would certainly have been in with a good shout.
As well as Deeney, the future's of Paul Bolland, Stefan Oakes and Richardson remain in doubt. The only other player out of contract in the summer, Steve Scoffham, is likely to sign a three-month deal.
For all the latest happenings at Meadow Lane, be sure to check back to NCM.