LeBron James has claimed that it is imperative the Cleveland Cavaliers agree a deal to re-sign Tristan Thompson before the end of the new season.

Thompson played a key role for the Cavaliers off the bench last season, before replacing Kevin Love in the lineup during the playoffs as David Blatt's side reached the NBA Finals.

James and Love have signed extensions this summer, but the future of Thompson remains unclear after his agent revealed that the 24-year-old would leave next year if the Cavaliers forced him to accept a one-year qualifying offer.

"Our number one objective right now is to sign Tristan," James told reporters. "He's a huge part of our team. Short term and long term he makes our team more dangerous.

"Things need to be worked out from his side and the Cavs, but we need him back. I think our front office has done a great job this summer. The next step is to get Tristan done."

Thompson is reported to be looking for a five-year maximum deal worth close to $94m (£60.2m).