Sergio Romero Agrees to New Contract Through 2021 with Manchester United

Sergio Romero has signed a new contract to stay at Manchester United for another four years. The Argentinian goalkeeper has agreed to extend his time at Old Trafford, despite the presence of first-choice David De Gea.

Romero's new contract was confirmed in a statement, per Mark Froggatt of United's official website. He noted how the back-up stopper's new deal also has the option to extend for a fifth year.

Romero expressed his delight at penning fresh terms, per the statement:

"I am delighted to have signed a new contract. Who wouldn't want to be at the biggest club in the world? We have great goalkeepers here and we are always learning from each other. Of course, it was a very proud moment for me and my family to be part of the Europa League final, and I am looking forward to helping the team build on last season's success in 2017/18."

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Meanwhile, Red Devils manager Jose Mourinho also talked up the 30-year-old former AZ Alkmaar man's importance:

"Sergio is a great goalkeeper and professional. He had a good season and outstanding performances, especially in our Europa League success. Sergio deserves his contract, and for Manchester United to have Sergio and David is amazing in such an important role."

Mourinho's reference to Romero's professionalism is significant. After all, the South American can expect to spend a lot of time on the bench if De Gea sticks around.

In fairness, Mourinho did use Romero last season, even starting the veteran for the UEFA Europa League final win over Ajax. It was a key audition for a player whose value will increase if De Gea leaves this summer.

Real Madrid remain keen on Spain's No. 1, and United are expecting Los Blancos to renew their interest in the gifted stopper, per Jamie Jackson of the Guardian.

United don't want to sell, but Samuel Luckhurst of the Manchester Evening News believes a new deal still makes sense for Romero, given his quality:

Such is the threat of Real tempting former Atletico Madrid star De Gea back to the Spanish capital, many United fans have taken to social media to greet the news of Romero's contract extension as a sign their first choice could be leaving, per Izzy Horsefield of the Sunday Express.

For the moment, at least, United can take pride from having two accomplished internationals ready and able to hold down the fort at the key spot between the sticks.