Olympique Lyonnais midfielder Nabil Fekir has put pen to paper on a new five-year deal at the Stade de Gerland.
The France international, 21, has been linked with a summer move to Arsenal, but the player has opted to stay in France following Les Gones’ qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
“It was an easy decision – this club has captured my heart,” Fekir said.
“I want to help us improve. There was no hesitation as I wanted to continue my adventure here.”
Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas added: “He is one of the club’s – and France’s – brightest prospects.
“His progress has been massive and he has shown he can handle himself well. I feel that Nabil is happy where he is and it’s always nice to see that in a highly-talented player.
“We are convinced this is an investment in the future.”
Meanwhile, according to the club’s official website, Lyon have also rewarded No. 1 goalkeeper Anthony Lopes and Corentin Tolisso with new deals.
“My plan was always to extend my deal with OL,” Lopes said.
“There were lots of rumours flying around but I never listened to them. The truth was quite different.”
Tolisso, 20, added: “I’m very happy to have extended my deal. It’s a great reassurance for me and my family.
“We have the chance to prepare well now and get the new season off to a great start.”
Lyon are priced at 14/1 to win the Ligue 1 title in 2015/16.
Darmian set for United move
Manchester United are on the verge of signing of highly-rated Italy international defender Matteo Darmian from Torino after agreeing a four-your deal with the player, according to Sky Sports.
United have agreed an initial fee of £12.7 million for Darmian, who will become the Reds’ second summer recruit following the arrival of Memphis Depay from PSV Eindhoven.
“The day has come, after three fantastic years to leave Turin. Wonderful three years where I learned to play, have fun and I learned above all to live!,” Darmian wrote on torinogranata.it.
“Right now I have no words, I’m just crying. Remember that I leave Turin for a future career choice, not because I am evil. Turin will always be my second home, I never tire of her [Turin]. I wish good luck to all the team and the fans.
“I gave all of my heart and my soul. It was an honour to play for Torino and also be in a few games the captain!”
Darmian, formerly of AC Milan and Palermo, bagged two goals and one assist in 33 Italian Serie A appearances for Torino last season.
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