HAWTHORN hopes to have four-time premiership coach Alastair Clarkson sign a new contract before Christmas. 

Up for discussion is just how long the Hawks will commit to their modern day coaching hero, in what could be a multi-million dollar deal. 

Clarkson's current contract runs out at the end of next season, and club will not want speculation on his future to linger too far into the new year.

"It's in progress, but what's held us up is obviously living through finals again," chief executive Stuart Fox told SEN on Thursday.

"We didn't want to do anything during finals, both parties," Fox explained.

"Then Clarko took off for about three weeks then I took off for about three weeks and we're only just crossing paths again."

Fox revealed negotiations are set to ramp up soon. 

"We've got some discussions coming up in the next week," he said. 

While Fox said the Hawks 'certainly hoped' to have the deal done by Christmas, he said talks could continue early next year if necessary. 

"I think we're on track and we've had some good discussions to date so I don't see there being major issues."