BLACKBURN Rovers defender Lucas Neill has put contract talks on hold until after the World Cup.

The Australian international, who was outstanding for Rovers last season, has been offered a new three-year deal by manager Mark Hughes.

But Neill's agent, Peter Harrison, has told the Evening Telegraph it could be pre-season before his client decides whether or not to commit his long-term future to Rovers.

Several Premiership rivals, including Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United, are said to be monitoring Neill's situation at Blackburn with interest, knowing the player only has a year left to run on his present deal.

However, Harrison insists he has not been in contact with any other club, and, though Neill has yet to put pen to paper on a new deal with Rovers, he has played down suggestions that the Aussie is holding out for a better offer.

"I'm in talks with John Williams at Blackburn and I haven't had any contact with any other club," said Harrison.

"But I think everyone is aware that Lucas has a year left on his present deal and he's had a good season, which is why there has been speculation.

"Lucas is away now until pre-season. He's gone back to Australia for a short break then he'll be going on to the World Cup, so there isn't any rush.

"That's not to say he isn't going to sign for Blackburn.

"Nothing has been lined up with any other club, and our plan is to have further dialogue with Blackburn once Lucas is back in the country."