New United deal for de Laet
06 Oct 2009 - 11:05:35
Manchester United have handed a new contract to young defender Richie de Laet.
De Laet, 20, has agreed a new three-year contract at Old Trafford less than 12 months after arriving from Stoke City.
The Belgian youngster has been told that he is close to breaking into the first team by United boss Sir Alex Ferguson.
"Alex Ferguson told me I'm very close to the first team," he said.
"There has been talk of me going out on loan but Sir Alex said I can't leave as he may need me.
"The new contract is a surprise and fantastic news."
The Antwerp-born youngster has made one Carling Cup appearance for United this season.