Tunisian giants Esperance have started negotiations with their Ghanaian international defender Harrison Afful, to extend his expiring contract.

The negotiations is expected to be very difficult for the Blood and Gold’s in-demand player who could move on a free transfer in the summer.

Afful’s contract will expire at the end of this season.

This means he can join any club of his choice on a free transfer with many clubs seeking his signature following an excellent showing at the 2014 World Cup

Esperance have been stubborn over several lucrative contracts in Europe, and the UAE for the Ghanaian as the Tunisians have spurned all the approaches.

According to Tunisian media, Blood and Gold have decided to start discussions with Afful with the hope that he will decide to stay with the club for more seasons.

Afful had asked Esperance for an increase in his wage if they want him to stay or wants to try his luck in Europe or the UAE.

The Ghanaian international player was close to joining to Al Wahda of UAE before the move fell through at the last minute because of intentional delays by Esperance.