City are ready to step up contract talks with Peter Taylor.

The manager’s short-term deal runs until the end of May and fans have been calling for the club to pin him down for next season.

Taylor admitted he has “got the bug” at Valley Parade and has been busy rebuilding the squad with six new signings.

But joint-chairman Mark Lawn stressed that plenty will have to be agreed to secure the boss for the long-term.

He said: “I think we will be talking to Peter very soon and seeing what he wants.

“But I need to make it clear that a contract is more than just what wages we are going to pay Peter.

“He’s going to want a budget and to make sure we can fulfil his requirements. We’ve got to wait to sit down and talk to him about that and see where we go from there.

“Talks have started about player budgets, not about his wages.

“He’s coming back to us with what he thinks would be a realistic figure to help us get promotion.

“Peter’s got it in his own mind who he’d like to keep and who he would let go.”

Lawn has been impressed with City’s progress since the former England under-21 coach took the helm. They have won four of the last six games.

“There is a definite improvement in the team in general both on an off the pitch, which is quite impressive. He’s doing a very good job.

“Peter has got us well organised and defending well. That always gives you a chance.

“Once you stop the goals going in, it gives you something to build on.

“He’s got immense contacts within the game. People know Peter and are willing to help him.

“I don’t think we can knock any of the players he’s brought in. They certainly seem to have improved the side wherever they’ve slotted into.

“All parties need to be happy with what’s happening. From our point of view we’re very happy with what Peter is doing.”