Manchester United confirm new four-year contract for Timothy Fosu-Mensah

Timothy Fosu-Mensah has declared himself "delighted" after putting pen to paper on a new contract at Manchester United. Rumours over a long-term deal for the versatile young defender had been circulating for several months and the club have now officially confirmed a new four-year agreement that will see him remain at Old Trafford until at least 2020, with the option of an extra year.

"I have enjoyed every minute since I joined this great club and I want to continue the progress that I feel I have made so far," he told United's official website after an announcement made on Wednesday evening (19 October). "I am learning every day from the manager and the coaching staff. I appreciate the trust that the club has in me and I want to repay that with my performances on the pitch."

Capable of playing across the back four and in central midfield, Fosu-Mensah is a very popular figure with supporters who are eager to see his role expand under Jose Mourinho. The 18-year-old, who moved to English football from Ajax in 2014, has made 12 total appearances since becoming the 13th youth team graduate to be handed his first-team debut by Louis van Gaal. He did so as a second-half replacement for Marcos Rojo during a 3-2 Premier League win over Arsenal back in February.

Under-21 regular Fosu-Mensah went onto make 10 total appearances last term and was rewarded for his confident performances with a maiden call-up to a preliminary Netherlands squad for May fixtures against the Republic of Ireland, Poland and Austria. He did not appear in any of those friendlies, however, and was also previously approached by Ghana regarding a possible switch of international allegiance.

Fosu-Mensah, who struggled with injury during pre-season, has been used sparingly during Mourinho's first few months at the helm, deputising for regular right-back Antonio Valencia in last month's EFL Cup third-round tie at League One outfit Northampton Town and the subsequent Europa League win over Zorya Luhansk. Despite that relative lack of first-team action, however, Mourinho is excited by the youngster's progress.

"Tim is a young player with great potential," he said. "I am pleased that he has signed a new contract and I am delighted at the progress he has made so far. It is clear to see that he is learning every day in training and there will be plenty of opportunities for him as the season continues."