By Phil McNulty BBC Sport Online chief football writer

Newcastle United have opened talks with Craig Bellamy in a bid to agree a new five-year contract.

Bellamy has proved a massive success since making a �6m move to Newcastle from Coventry City.

Now manager Sir Bobby Robson wants to maintain his squad's continuity by getting Bellamy to sign a new deal.

BBC Sport Online can confirm talks are under way, but contrary to weekend reports, discussions are only in the early stages.

Bellamy was sidelined by injury at the end of last season, but boss Robson sees his partnership with Alan Shearer as a vital element in Newcastle's bid to make an impact in the Champions League and the Premiership.

Robson wants to base his squad around the youth of Bellamy, Kieron Dyer and Jermaine Jenas, new boys Hugo Viana and Titus Bramble, as well the experience of Shearer.

And Newcastle are hopeful that Bellamy will commit his long-term future to the club by signing a lucrative new deal.