Manchester, England (SportsNetwork.com) - Manchester United defender Chris Smalling put pen to paper on a new contract on Tuesday that will keep him at Old Trafford until the summer of 2019.
Smalling, 25, was reportedly drawing interest from Arsenal during the January transfer window, but his since put together solid performances in the middle of the defense, helping the Red Devils surge into a Champions League place.
"Chris has improved and developed immensely during the short time that I have been at the club and has become an integral part of the first-team squad," said United manager Louis van Gaal. "He always conducts himself in a very professional manner and it is also pleasing that he has scored some important goals this season too. I am delighted he has signed a new contract."
"I'm delighted to sign my new contract. I am so proud to play for such a great club. We have developed as a team over the course of the season under Louis van Gaal and we are now playing as a complete unit," added Smalling.
"This is a very exciting time to be at Manchester United, we are all determined to get back to where we belong and competing at the highest level."
Smalling has racked up 147 appearances, nine goals and two Premier League winners medals since joining the club from Fulham for an undisclosed fee in January 2010.
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