All White Michael McGlinchey could be set to join the Wellington Phoenix, with rival A-League club Central Coast reported to be wanting to close the book on a protracted contract dispute.

McGlinchey, 27, has been at the Mariners since 2009, but wants to move to the Phoenix, who believe he is free to sign with them.

In August, a Football Federation of Australia arbitrator ruled that the midfielder was still contracted to the Mariners.

But the NSW club have scarcely heard from McClinchey since he told coach Phil Moss he wanted out and have decided to cut their losses, the Sydney Morning Herald reported.

“We have a very special culture in the Mariners and that culture doesn’t allow for anyone that doesn’t want to be here,” Moss told the Herald.

“We’re moving on with those who want to be a part of what we’re doing.”

Meanwhile, Louis Fenton has extended his contract with the Phoenix until the end of the 2015-16 season.

Fenton says he wants to continue his development under coach Ernie Merrick, who has been using him at fullback.

“When I came here, I could probably only play one position, but I think I can now put my hand up to play anywhere,” he said.

“I would love to play striker because that is where I started out and, like every footballer, I like to score goals.”

The 21-year-old Fenton marked his Phoenix debut against Sydney FC in October 2012 with a goal, meeting a cross with a spectacular diving header.

Merrick described Fenton’s re-signing as “a sensible career decision”, saying he was sure the player would eventually be good enough to play in Europe.

NZN