Detroit Lions team president Tom Lewand has claimed that he is having "civil and productive" talks with defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh over a new deal.

Suh is entering the final year of his contract this season, and the Lions are keen to tie him down to a long-term deal before the beginning of the 2014 campaign.

However, Lewand does not believe that it matters how long it takes to come to an agreement with the three-time Pro Bowler as long as the end result is beneficial for both parties.

"They're more on the civil and productive side of the spectrum. The timing is less important than the outcome, and as long as the outcome is right both for Ndamukong and for us then I think he can be a part of the core of our team for a long time," Lewand is quoted as saying by The AP.

"It's been my experience over the years that when a player says he wants to be here and we indicate that we want him around we have a good track record."

Suh has been with the Lions since being chosen second overall in the 2010 Draft.