Barcelona defender Dani Alves has ended speculation about his future by finally agreeing a new contract.
Negotiations between Alves and the Catalan giants have been dragging on for some time, leading to suggestions the Brazil international could be heading for the Camp Nou exit at the end of the season.
Big-spending Manchester City were reportedly waiting in the wings in case Barca decided to cash-in this summer instead of losing Alves for nothing in 2012, but the La Liga leaders have now confirmed that a deal has been agreed that will keep the 27-year-old at the club until 2015.
A statement on the club’s official website read: “Barcelona has reached an agreement with Dani Alves to extend his contract with the club for the next three seasons, until June 30, 2015.”
And Alves, who joined from Sevilla in 2008, added: “Being at the club for so many years is a dream.
“I'm playing at one of the world's most desired teams, which is making history.
“The most important thing is that I'm happy and I want to make the most of it. It is a privilege and a joy to be here.”
Alves joined Barca from Sevilla in 2008 and has helped the club win eight major trophies, including two Primera Division titles and the Champions League.