Danny Welbeck signs a new four-year deal with Manchester United

Manchester United have announced that Danny Welbeck has a signed a new four-year contract with the club. It is a deal that been anticipated recently. The 21-year-old is coming off an impressive 2011-12 season -- his first full season at the club -- in which he scored 12 goals in 40 appearances. The youngster has already made 9 appearances for England as well. Welbeck is a local lad -- Longsight born -- and he's a product of United's youth system. He seems quite excited about his future at United:

"Playing for United is all I’ve ever wanted to do – it’s the club I’ve supported all my life. I can’t wait for the challenge of the new season to play my part in helping the team compete for trophies. I’m learning all the time from the best manager in the game and I’m keen for that to continue alongside the world class players in the squad."

- Welbeck | Source: ManUtd.com

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson appears delighted as well to secure the young striker's services:

"Danny has been with the club since he was eight years old and has made fantastic progress in the last couple of years – first out on loan and last year as a regular in the first team. He has become an important player at international level as well, as the maturity of his performances at the European Championships showed. This year is another important one for him. He has a bright future ahead of him."

- Ferguson | Source: ManUtd.com

Welbeck jumped ahead of Javier Hernandez (Chicharito) and Dimitar Berbatov last season to become the first-choice strike partner for Wayne Rooney. With the addition of world-class striker Robin van Persie to the club though, the youngster faces stiff competition for spots in attack this season. His versatility and all-around game, along with United's always congested fixture list, should allow him opportunities though to match his 40 appearances from last season. He is able to play as a both as a central-striker or as a wide forward. His movement and ability to play quick one-touch football is a strength of his but his finishing will need improving if he is to fulfill what many see as his massive potential.

Congratulations Danny on your new contract. We look forward to witnessing you progress at Old Trafford.