Stoke City boss Tony Pulis wants midfielder Salif Diao to join his coaching staff.

Diao has been given the summer to consider a deal which would allow him to join the backroom staff and remain registered as a player.

Pulis wants Diao to combine playing with developing the club’s younger players and taking on some scouting duties.

City also hope Diao’s contacts in Africa could help them attract players.

The midfielder’s representative, Gary Mellor, of Stoke-on-Trent law firm Beswicks, said Diao was reluctant to leave City.

He told The Sentinel: “Salif has the greatest respect for Tony Pulis and has gone away for a short break to think the offer over. There has been interest from France, the U.S. and Italy, but Salif has had very constructive talks with both Tony Scholes and Tony Pulis.

“They see him having a much wider role at the club than before, so he’s gone away to think about that and all it entails.”