CONTRACT talks have started with short-term signing Robert Gilchrist as Worcester Wolves aim to persuade him to stay put until the end of the season.

The Great Britain international arrived at Wolves on a one-month deal to help the team through a hectic list of fixtures in December and head coach Paul James has been impressed with what he has seen.

All four of Gilchrist's appearances have resulted in victories for Worcester as he rattled in 15 points in their 122-66 win over Leeds Force last Friday.

The 27-year-old is scheduled to play in three more games, including tomorrow’s BBL Cup semi-final second leg at Sheffield Sharks (7.30pm), before his current deal ends.

And James insisted he was keen to get Gilchrist’s future resolved sooner rather than later as he looks to kick on in 2018.

“Discussions are going on now because either way we have got to sort something out,” James said.

“We don’t want to leave it until the end of his contract term because then we would be back to square one.

“Discussions started last week and they are continuing this week.”

Gilchrist played for Spanish side Araberri last season in the Liga Española de Baloncesto Oro after spells in Germany and Greece.

The 6ft 9in power forward, who was born in London and spent his college career at Florida State University, has also made seven appearances for GB.

“Robert does seem comfortable but at the end of the day it comes down to the player’s decision,” James continued.

“It could go either way. If the player wants to stay then we can work it out if it is reasonable so we will see how that goes.

“We would prefer to know that we can get a deal done and he is here until the end of the season because then we could really build something here.

“There are all sorts of options open but ideally we would like him here until the end of the season. We will see whether that’s possible or not.”

James added: “I am really pleased with how well he has settled in here and am also delighted with how the rest of the team have accepted him into the fold.

“They understand what he brings to the team, especially at the defensive end as he is a fantastic athlete.

“He has come in and done the job we thought he would do so we are excited about that and hopefully once this month is up we will be able to move forward with him.

“But for now that is in a few weeks’ time and we need to focus on the games coming up.”