Both winger Whittingham and centre-back Johnson are out of contract next season but signing improved deals at Ninian Park will certainly fend off interested admirers.

BBC: Cardiff stars set for new deals

Centre-back Youl Mawene, who is also out of contract in June, is set to discuss his future soon.

BBC: Manchester United's Danny Welbeck ponders Preston move

General Manager Brian Cashman was ready to let A-Rod leave when he opted out of his prior contract back in 2007, only to be overruled by the caving Hank Steinbrenner.

FORBES: Ibanez Hits For A-Rod: Great Now, Troubling For The Yankees' Future