Chelsea transfers: Max Meyer signs new long-term Schalke deal

Max Meyer has expressed his delight after penning a new long-term deal at Schalke.

Chelsea had been linked with a €15m (£12.5m) bid for the 18-year-old after he featured in both of the German side’s Champions League group games against the Blues in the current campaign.

Schalke boss Jen Kellers has already started the youngster in five Bundesliga games this season, with the midfielder having made a further three appearances from the bench, scoring three goals and making one assist.

And Meyer revealed the chance to play regularly in the Champions League was a key factor behind his decision to commit his future to Schalke.

“I am very happy about this new contract because I really like being at Schalke,” he told the club’s website.

“In addition there have been two important things for me: The club is putting trust in home-grown talents and it gives me the opportunity to play regularly in Europe even at this point of my development.”

Schalke general manager Horst Heldt added: “Max Meyer signing a new contract is great news for our club.

“Many experts feel Max (Meyer) will have a big career in the game and his progress in those recent months already has been breathtaking.

“Therefore we are delighted to have signed a new long-term deal with another star from our youth academy!”