Arca has scored seven goals in 140 appearances for the Teessiders

Middlesbrough boss Tony Mowbray says he will be talking to midfielder Julio Arca about his future, with his contract set to expire this summer.

Arca, 30, has said he would like to remain at the Riverside, having scored seven goals in 140 appearances for the club since his 2006 switch.

"There's a lot of talking to be done, but that should be done behind closed doors," Mowbray told BBC Tees.

"When it's right to do that with Julio we'll have that conversation."

Mowbray added: "The quotes have probably come about after the Crystal Palace game.

"I was asked about Julio and I gave my thoughts. I said he might have been the best player on the pitch and controlled the match, but there was a fair chance he wouldn't be here next year, because of our situation and Julio's salary levels."

Arca joined Middlesbrough from North East rivals Sunderland in July 2006 for £1.75m.

Meanwhile Mowbray has offered his backing to striker Leroy Lita following his winner against Millwall last weekend.

The 26-year-old forward was booked for removing his shirt in celebration after the striker handed the club three points, his second yellow card of the season for the same offence.

"I wasn't sure how many bookings he's had, it turns out he's only got three, you're allowed up to 10 bookings now between now and April, so if he scores another seven goals between now and then I shall not complain," Mowbray added.

"Let's wait and see, if he starts missing games because he's taken his shirt off when scoring, and I suppose if he scores early it leaves him vulnerable and if he makes a striker's challenge it could hurt the team.

"It's probably just a quiet word in his ear that's needed rather than anything disciplinary.

"I accepted it last week, when he scores the winner at The New Den to win us all three points and takes his shirt off, I will take Leroy's booking no problem."

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