Keith Curle is hoping for "clarity" on his Carlisle United future when he meets the Blues' board this week.

The manager, whose side start 2018 with a trip to Mansfield tomorrow (One Call Stadium, 3pm), is set for talks with the United hierarchy on Friday.

Among the subjects under discussion at the key meeting will be Curle's contract situation.

Chief executive Nigel Clibbens recently said the manager's deal, which runs out in the summer, will form part of a half-season review.

Curle admitted he is unsure whether he will be offered new terms this week, but hopes the situation is made clearer.

"I think, personally, it's clarity that is needed," he said.

"Clarity and direction from all parties - from the stakeholders, from myself, and that filters down to the players as well."

United's manager also expects to learn about his transfer window budget at the same meeting.

After Saturday's home defeat to Coventry, Curle admitted he still did not know how much money - if any - he would have at his disposal in the January market.

Carlisle recently said the Blues were at their limit under wage cap rules, but that increased crowds, plus progress in the FA Cup, could allow Curle to do more business.

"That [Friday's meeting] is where I'll get an indication from the club of the monies that are available, then I'll give an indication of where I'll be able to spend the money," Curle said.

"Ideally I would like to do business straight away but I have mentioned before about being involved in a business that needs to show good housekeeping.

"It has been touched on recently, and I don't know the amount I've spent percentage-wise, but if money is there, I'll spend it. If none is available, I won't.

"The less funds, the more creative I need to be to generate money. The squad has got a few players who haven't been getting game time. But the pleasing thing is I've not been told yet that I need to move anybody out to free up money."

United are also hoping to finalise a deal that will keep Millwall loan right-back James Brown at Brunton Park for the rest of the season.

The defender plays the final game of his half-season loan against Steve Evans' side tomorrow.

Curle said the matter was now in the hands of the respective clubs' chief executives.