Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic has put an end to the speculation surrounding his future by penning a new deal at Old Trafford (Manchester United 11/10 to keep a clean sheet at Craven Cottage tomorrow).
The Serbian star, rated as one of the best centre-halves in the Premier League, has been linked with some of Europe’s top clubs over the summer but has now extended his stay with United by signing a new four-year deal.
The likes of Italian giants AC Milan and La Liga outfit Real Madrid, now managed by former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, had been mooted as possible suitors for the powerful stopper but Vidic will stick with United.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was understandably delighted Vidic has agreed new terms.
Rio Ferdinand, who usually partners the powerful Serbian in the heart of the United defence, is still two or three weeks away from being able to play after suffering a knee injury in the build up to the World Cup and it was perhaps crucial that the United boss retained Vidic’s services.
“We are delighted Nemanja has committed his future to the club,” Ferguson said. “This kills all the silly speculation over the past few months.
“Nemanja has developed into one of the best centre-halves in Europe and we are pleased he will be here for many years to come.”
Both Real and AC Milan were rumoured to be lining up mega bids for the 28-year-old, with some sources speculating the duo would battle it out by launching bids of around £20million to capture the defender, but that speculation has now been ended.
The man himself revealed he was pleased to have extended his stay at Old Trafford and paid tribute to United for helping him improve as a player after joining in a £7.2million deal in 2005 from Russian side Spartak Moscow.
“I am very happy to sign this contract,” added Vidic. “I came to this club when I was young and have developed enormously with the help of the manager, coaching staff and my team-mates.
“During my time here we have had a lot of success and I look forward to continuing that success in the coming seasons.”
United take on Fulham at Craven Cottage as they look to continue their fine start to the season, having beaten Newcastle 3-0 and secured the Community Shield title with a 3-1 victory over Chelsea (Fulham 9/2, draw 14/5, Man Utd 8/13).
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Nemanja Vidic has agreed to sign a long-term contract with Manchester United to kill any hope Real Madrid had of signing the Serbia defender (United 5/2 – Premier League outright).