It's understood talks are being held this week with the coaching staff keen on securing the player to a longer term deal after an impressive Asian Champions League campaign.

Milicevic, 28, arrived at the club in February following the club's disastrous A-League season where they finished on the bottom of the table.

The player signed a one-year deal after having a year out of football following an injury-riddled spell with Melbourne Victory.

Since then, the ball-playing defender has reinvigorated the Jets' defensive stocks with three quality performances in the Asian Champions League.

The former UEFA Champions League player has also instilled a winning mentality on and off the park with his drive beginning to rub off on the squad ahead of season five of the A-League.

It's understood the club looks at Milicevic as a player they can build a successful A-League team around after the disappointment of season four.

Milicevic's form has also resulted in speculation that the defender, who appeared six times for the green and gold in 2005/6, could return to the national team later this year as the Socceroos look to strengthen their central defence prior to the 2010 World Cup and beyond.

There have also been recent reports in Croatia that Hajduk Split has been linked with a move for the former FC Thun star.

However, the Jets will be without Milicevic on Wednesday night after a yellow card in Nagoya two weeks ago has ruled him out of the clash with the J-League club in Newcastle.