Martin Skrtel, Liverpool Agree on New Contract: Latest Details and Reaction

Liverpool and veteran defender Martin Skrtel finally agreed on a contract extension on Friday, keeping the longtime Reds centre-back at Anfield for the foreseeable future. The club announced the news via Twitter:

The Reds have yet to release details of the contract, although that shouldn't take too long.

The 30-year-old Slovakia international joined the club in 2008 and quickly established himself as one of the Reds' best defenders and most popular players among the fans. Known for his aerial prowess and no-nonsense approach to defending, fans have always been drawn to his blue-collar image.

Skrtel had one year left on his previous deal, and according to MailOnline Sport, negotiations proved difficult:

The veteran is still a very good defender and a pivotal contributor, but given his age and physical playing style, questions will always arise regarding his future. The player was obviously looking for a long-term commitment and some financial security, while the club was thinking of more than the immediate future.

Indeed, This is Anfield were happy to hear both parties were talking about a new deal but, writing for Bleacher Report, warned Liverpool they should also be looking for an eventual replacement:

But after years of service to the club and with plenty of football left in him, Skrtel surely deserved this new deal. He's one of the most experienced players at the club, and he adds stability to a group of defenders that has seen far too much turnover in recent years.

With questions regarding his immediate future now out of the way, the Reds can focus on extending other key players and start looking at the summer transfer market for some reinforcements.