Jets give up on re-signing O'Donovan

Newcastle Jets have confirmed they will not re-sign Irish striker Roy O'Donovan for next A-League season after failing to reach a deal despite protracted talks.

Disappointed Jets CEO Lawrie McKinna said O'Donovan had agreed in principal to the club's most recent contract extension offer, however, stumbling blocks continued to arise with speculation mounting that the 33-year-old is likely to land at Brisbane Roar.

"As (we) said from the beginning we wanted to keep Roy and did everything within reason to extend his stay in Newcastle," McKinna said.

"We were close on a number of occasions, but unfortunately from our perspective the goal posts continued to shift."

McKinna said it was disappointing as the club had "supported O'Donovan through some difficult circumstances".

O'Donovan missed a total of 12 matches through suspensions during his two-year stint with the Jets.

"Roy is a top professional and a good family man, he'll be an asset wherever he ends up and everyone at the club wishes him well," McKinna said.