Chicago White Sox GM wants Paul Konerko back next season

Chicago White Sox general manager Ken Williams made it clear to MLB.com (via Scott Merkin) that free-agent-to-be Paul Konerko is part of the team's future.

“I would love to have him retire as a White Sox,” said Williams.

Merkin says that the decision to keep Konerko will ultimately come down to how the Sox finish and the money available for 2011 and beyond.

“We are driven by the revenue stream that comes in. People might not like it but it is what it is. We have to at least be able to be a break-even operation, and try to win at the same time.”

Konerko, 34, has been with the White Sox since 1999 and not only brings his talent on the field, but he brings his clubhouse leaderships skills as team captain. In 2010, Konerko is hitting .316/.394/.576 with 33 home runs and 98 RBIs. He'll definitely be one of the more sought after free agents this winter.