Manchester United academy star Tahith Chong has ended Inter Milan's pursuit for his service by signing a new contract with the Red Devils. The 18-year-old winger has extended his stay with the Red Devils until June 2022 while retaining the option of extending for another year.
Chong, who was brought to United in 2016 after impressing at the Feyenoord academy has risen through the Red Devils' juvenile ranks and is on course to become a future star. Despite his exploits in the youth ranks, the Dutch attacker has often brought in development into question as he has mostly fallen short anytime he his given the nod to feature for the senior side. Although his chances have been limited, the player has been utilized in 10 games in all competitions this season by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
As a result, Chong - who was in the last year of his contract - was heavily linked with a transfer away from Old Trafford. Serie A clubs Inter Milan as well as Juventus were rumored to be interested in securing the service of the the Dutchman with the former even said to have opened negotiations with the player and his entourage.
On Monday, Manchester United issued a statement confirming that the 18-year-old academy star has committed his future to the club while the player himself declared his excitment for the step he has taken.
“When I joined Manchester United as a youngster, it was a dream come true," he said.
"It is an honour every time I pull on the shirt and represent this club. I am working hard every day to improve and I know this is the perfect environment to develop my game.
“The opportunity to learn from the manager, his coaching staff and the world-class players here is fantastic. I am delighted to sign this new contract and really grateful for the chance to prove myself here for many years to come.”
@TahithC is here to stay!#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 9, 2020
United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was also full of praise for Chong after he oversaw the player put pen to paper.
"Tahith works extremely hard every day and he is constantly improving.
"His performances this season, whether for the first team or Under-23s, are testament to his hard work, dedication and to his character. We are pleased with the progress he has made since he stepped up from the Academy and are looking forward to continuing to develop his talent.
“Tahith has great potential; given his age, ability and work-ethic, we can see that he has a bright future at Manchester United.”
