The Twins spent Thursday locked in negotiations with Dave Pepe, the agent for Twins closer Joe Nathan, about a contract extension.

And for the first time in several weeks, there are strong signals that a deal may be close.

Nathan moments ago expressed renewed optimism that a deal could get done soon. He wouldn’t divulge contract details but indicated that the ice has been broken in a stalemate that could have led to him being traded during the regular season.

Both Nathan and Pepe indicated during camp that it would be very difficult to get a deal done once the regular season begins. That deadline, however, may no longer be a factor.

“Things are headed in a good direction right now,” Nathan said. “We feel very optimistic that something can get done.”

 Check back here for more details as soon as they become available.

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