Manchester United Defender Nemanja Vidic Agrees New Long-Term Contract

Manchester United have confirmed that Nemanja Vidichas agreed terms on a new contract at the club to spurn advances from Real Madrid and AC Milan.

Vidic, 28, had been linked with a move to the continent after his wife had reportedly grown unsettled in England, while he had become angered by earning considerably less than defensive partner Rio Ferdinand. These rumours now seen to have been dismissed, however, and the player is set to extend his stay at Old Trafford.

Speaking to the club's official website, chief executive David Gill stated the deal had been agreed before the centre back represented Serbia at the World Cup and will be signed when he returns from holiday in early August.

"There was a lot of speculation about Nemanja's future, but in my view it's been the media drumming some old stories because they certainly didn't come out of the Manchester United camp and I'm confident they didn't come out of Nemanja's camp," Gill said.

"We sat down with Nemanja and his advisor at the end of last season and started discussions. They broke up when Nemanja went away to the World Cup, but resumed when Serbia were knocked out and I'm very pleased to confirm that we agreed terms with Nemanja three or four weeks ago on a new long-term deal with the club.

"It's yet to be signed - the paperwork is now being sorted by our lawyers and being checked by Nemanja's advisors. He's still away on holiday but the plan is that when he gets back the papers will be signed. We've shaken hands on it and we're confident it will all be signed and sealed in early August.

"It's great news for Manchester United and great news for Nemanja and the fans."
Gill also confirmed that discussions to keep star man Wayne Rooney at the club were to begin shortly.
"The current intention is to meet with Wayne and his advisors when we're back from tour and he's back from holiday with a view to sorting out a new deal for him," he said.

"It's clear from what he has said and what the club have said that both parties are very keen to sort things out and secure his long-term future at United.

"Given his desires and what he means to the club we're very confident that can be achieved."