Skrtel is Staying!

Despite being linked with a move away from Anfield for the entire summer, it looks as though the future of Martin Skrtel has finally been resolved. The 27-year-old has put pen to paper on a new long-term contract with the club, which puts an end to speculation over a transfer to Manchester City.

The Slovakian international has been at the centre of several rumours linking him with a move to the Etihad Stadium, with City supposedly tabling at least two bids for the central defender. At one point it looked as though Skrtel could be set to leave, with manager Brendan Rodgers stating that the player could exit the club should City meet the club’s asking price. However, even though they supposedly offered over £22m, the Reds stood firm and that has allowed this deal to be agreed.

According to Skrtel, exiting the club was never even a possibility. Speaking after signing the new deal, the player told the press, “After last season there was a lot of talk about my future, but the first priority for me was always to sign a new deal with Liverpool. I have been here almost four-and-a-half years and I have enjoyed that time here – myself and also my family – so there were no questions about whether to stay or to leave.”

The news will certainly be hugely welcoming to supporters, with Skrtel becoming a key player for the Reds since his £6m move from Zenit St Petersburg in 2008. He has established himself as one of the leading defenders in the Premier League and Liverpool have always been extra protective of the player, having extended his contract only in 2010. Following this new deal, Skrtel’s future has practically been confirmed and Rodgers can at least attempt to build a team around him.