Distin has yet to commit his future to City

Distin, 28, has failed to sign a new deal to take him beyond this season.

The Frenchman could leave for nothing next summer if he does not agree a deal but Pearce said he would not cash in on him in the January transfer window.

"I would rather keep him here and, if he leaves for nothing, that is just the way it goes," Pearce said.

Distin has made more than 170 appearances for City since joining from Paris St Germain in 2002.

Pearce added: "If it takes me until the last day of his contract to persuade him to stay that is fine."

The defender was linked with a move to Middlesbrough in the summer, but opted to stay with City.

Pearce added: "When Sylvain told us he didn't want to go to Middlesbrough I instantly looked upon that as giving me extra time to convince him he should follow the other top players who want to be part of this club.

"And I know Sylvain likes playing for us and I know his family is happy in the area.

"But the thing that will persuade him to sign a new contract is not words from me, it is the performances of the team he is part of.

"I honestly believe he will stay but we have to get enough positive results to make sure it happens."