Luis Suarez says he is ‘proud’ and ‘delighted’ to have signed a new long-term contract at Liverpool.
Liverpool have not disclosed details of the new contract agreements but early reports suggest he will be earning a fee in the region of £200,000 per week over the final four years of the contract- making him the highest paid ‘Reds’ player in the club’s history.
He has reportedly signed a 4-year deal and will earn around £160,000 until the end of the season.
The 26-year-old Uruguayan, who has scored 17 goals in 11 Premier League start since returning from his ten-match ban, said he is focused on helping the Anfield outfit achieve sustainable success in the domestic league and in Europe.
“I am delighted to have agreed a new deal with Liverpool and have my future secured for the long term,” said Suarez.
“We have some great players and the team is growing and improving all the time. I believe I can achieve the ambitions of winning trophies and playing at the very highest level with Liverpool. My aim is to help get us there as quickly as possible.”
Liverpool turned down a 40m + £1 offer from league leaders Arsenal- expected to trigger the release clause placed in the Uruguayan’s previous deal- during the summer transfer window, stressing their player is not for sale.
Manager Brendan Rodgers has heaped praises on the player’s attitude and commitment since returning to the side in a League Cup third round loss to Manchester United in September.
But Suarez insists his “special relationship” with the Merseyside club’s supporters prompted his long-term commitment.
“Without doubt the backing I have received from the Liverpool fans has influenced my decision. I am so proud to represent them and go out to do my best for them every time I pull on the shirt.
“We have a special relationship; they have love for me and in return I love them back. I will always do my best for them and hopefully we can achieve success together.”
Liverpool manager, Brendan Rodgers, said the news will give everyone a lift: “This is fantastic news for everyone associated with the club; the team, the owners and most importantly the supporters.
“Luis is a world-class talent and securing his services is crucial for what we are trying to achieve here.
“What’s most important and most exciting is that, at just 26 years old, his best years are still ahead of him and we now know we’ll be seeing him reach that potential in a Liverpool shirt.”
