Pearce has big hopes for Distin (left) and Barton

"We are talking with Sylvain's representatives," said Pearce. "We have made a fantastic offer to him and we expect him to sign very shortly.

"We have made Joey a fantastic offer. Joey decided to leave it and talk again in the summer.

"We will review it again in the summer but would like to keep both players."

City ended a run of six successive Premiership defeats on Tuesday by winning 1-0 at Aston Villa.

Distin, 28, who was impressive in his role marking Milan Baros, has one year left on his contract and was the subject of a �5m bid from Newcastle in January.

Barton's current deal also expires in the summer of 2007.

Distin and Barton are good lads to have around the place, good players, and I think they will flourish under me and Manchester City Man City boss Stuart Pearce

The 23-year-old handed in a transfer request in January after rejecting the club's original offer of a new deal.

City had previously stood by Barton after he suffered from disciplinary problems.

Barton was heavily criticised for his decision to ask for a move and was booed by some of the club's supporters.

He later withdrew his transfer request, while City tabled an improved contract.

Pearce believes that Distin and Barton still have a lot to offer City.