NEWPORT County have tied down defender Paul Bignot to a new contract, even though he could yet be departing for life in the Championship.

The right back, who swept the board with individual honours this season including being named your Argus Player of the Year, went on trial at Sven Goran Eriksson’s Leicester City last week.

Bignot impressed and the Argus understands a bid from the Foxes is still likely this summer.

However, County had already offered Bignot an improved deal before the interest from Leicester and have opted to honour the agreement.

Bignot is now contracted until 2013 and County’s hand is also strengthened ahead of any transfer negotiations, as he’s now no longer a free agent 12 months from now.

“This was a simple equation for us, we had already offered Paul a deal before Leicester took him on trial and we were happy to honour that deal and give Paul improved terms for a terrific season,” director of football Tim Harris confirmed. “Nothing has changed really in regard to the situation, we are not announcing this deal in a way that means Paul is definitely staying. If Leicester bid for Paul we will carefully consider it because we don’t want to deny players the chance to get a dream move like that.

“But similarly, if Paul doesn’t move to Leicester City we want him to be happy here and raring to go for the new season and that is why we were keen to tie him down to a new contract.”

Harris admits that it’s slow going on the transfer front as manager Anthony Harris attempts to strengthen his squad.

Hudson has been working overtime and Harris believes the close season is proving a huge learning curve for the rookie boss.

“Anthony is working every hour in the day trying to get things tied up to benefit this football club,” he said.

“But he’s finding it’s not always that easy, that at this time of year, things can move very slowly or very quickly and sometimes you need to take a step back and just ride it out.

“This truly is the silly season and I keep telling Anthony that. But he’s working towards some big things and he’s on the right track without a doubt.”

The Argus understands another contract renewal at the club is imminent, though attempts to sign new players are unlikely to bear fruit in the next couple of days.

The club are also working on securing another top level pre-season friendly.

“We are working towards that,” Harris confirmed.