Updated

Real Madrid defender Pepe is hopeful of being offered a new contract when his current deal at the Bernabeu expires next summer.

The 33-year-old started the season as Madrid's third-choice center-back but ended up playing a key role in their domestic resurgence under Zinedine Zidane and eventual Champions League triumph.

He is about to enter the final year of his contract with Los Blancos and hopes that his performances will prompt the 11-time European champions to extend his stay.

Speaking to Marca, he said: "I hope that it is not my last year at Madrid. I take care of myself a lot to be (here) as long as possible. I have one year more and I hope to earn myself, with my performances, (the chance to be in the position so) that the club offers to renew me for one more year, or two.

"I will always give priority to Madrid. If the season finishes and they tell me that they do not count with me, I will gather my things. But Madrid will always be my first option."

The Portuguese international is about to enter his tenth season at the Bernabeu and has won ten titles with Real Madrid, including two Champions League trophies and two La Liga titles.