The player's agent Tony Rallis has been in talks with the club and is confident a deal can be completed.

"I compare him to Cahill because of his positional play, and I think Mitch is a better passer of the ball and is quicker than Cahill. But his dedication, desire and discipline needs to match Cahill's," Rallis told the Courier Mail.

He said a deal could be finalised next week.

"I'm confident it'll be a done deal very soon," he added. "It's not just about the money, but Mitch's new contract will reflect his market value."

The player's challenge, as well as trying to help the Olyroos reach the London Olympics, is to force his way into Ange Postecoglou's Roar side as a regular starter.

The coach feels the youngster sometimes puts too much pressure on himself when handed a starting slot.

Nichols' next chance to impress comes tonight against Newcastle Jets.