Anelka pens new Bolton deal
30 Aug 2007 - 11:36:02
Bolton Wanderers striker Nicolas Anelka appears to have ended speculation about his future after signing a new long-term contract at the Reebok Stadium.
The France international had been widely tipped to leave Bolton before Friday's transfer deadline with Manchester United, Manchester City and Portsmouth all believed to be interested.
However, the 28-year-old now looks set to remain with the Trotters after putting pen to paper on an improved deal until the end of the 2011 season.
Wanderers signed Anelka in a club record £8million deal from Fenerbahce last summer.
The former Real Madrid and Arsenal star scored 14 times in 39 appearances last season.
"It is a fantastic boost for the club and our supporters that Nicolas has agreed to stay with us," manager Sammy Lee told the club's official website.
"We have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to get him to commit his long-term future to us.
"Nicolas is one of the world's best strikers and I am immensely proud and happy that he has shown such commitment to the club.
"It's also a boost for the dressing room because a team never wants to lose anybody of Nicolas' stature and presence.
"This shows our ambition to be amongst the top clubs, not just in this country but across the world of football.
"Nicolas is one of the most sought after strikers in the world and I am delighted that he will continue to wear the Bolton Wanderers shirt."
Meanwhile, defender Nicky Hunt has also pledged his long-term future to the club after signing a new deal until summer 2011.