Liverpool forward Sadio Mane has finally put pen to paper on an extended deal that keeps him at the club until 2023.
The 26 year old's new contract runs until shortly after his 31st birthday, ensuring that Liverpool will continue to enjoy him at the peak of his powers - or in the worst case scenario command a huge sum for his services.
But with 40 goals in his 89 LFC appearances to date - the focus for player and club is firmly on his ongoing contributions to the Anfield cause.
Negotiations have been going on for some time but it seems that Mane's intention was always to wait for the right deal.
“I am very happy, very happy to extend my time at Liverpool.
“It is a great day for me and now I am looking forward to everything – to helping the team, to helping the club achieve our dreams and, especially, to win trophies.
“I’ve always said, when I knew I had a chance to come here I didn’t have to think twice. The right club in the right moment and with the right coach as well. I came here and was very happy.
“For me, I have made the best decision in my career.”
And there was glowing tributes from the Liverpool boss, Jurgen Klopp, who added:
“I can't think of a single club anywhere in Europe that wouldn't want a player like Sadio available to them, so the fact he wants to remain with us says something about where we are currently.
“He is a such an important member of our team and squad. He radiates joy and I think this is reflected in his performances and impact on the pitch.
“The only criticism I could ever have of Sadio is that maybe at times he is the only one not to see just how good he is - but as an attacking player he is the complete package.
“He wants to do it with us and by committing the best years of his career to LFC I know we have someone who will give their absolute everything... as a manager you can ask for no more.”
The news comes as a boost at the end of the international break and with the reds travelling to face 7th placed Watford on Saturday afternoon.
Mane is in his 5th Premier League season - his first two spent at Southampton and he recently celebrated his 50th Premier League goal. With six goals in 10 appearances this season he is well placed to set a new benchmark - his previous best was a goal return of 13 in the 27 Premier League games in his debut LFC season.
