Borussia Dortmund have announced that Julian Brandt has signed a new contract that will keep him at Signal-Iduna Park until 2026.

The midfielder’s previous deal was set to expire next summer, but the Bundesliga giants have successfully negotiated an extension after several weeks of behind-the-scenes negotiation over new terms.

The new deal comes as a blow for clubs interested in Brandt, with Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and Newcastle United all interested in the player, while Italian clubs Inter and Napoli were also keeping a watchful eye on negotiations.

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BVB confirmed on Tuesday that Brandt has committed his future to the club.

Brandt said in a club statement: “Even after four years, I still have a lot of fun every single day being part of this very team, standing on the pitch with these guys and playing football for this highly emotional club with its extraordinary fans.

“To be honest, the feeling of being in the right place at the right time has always been the most important point in my sporting life.

“And that won’t change either. I’m looking forward to the next few years in black and yellow. And I’m sure we’ll have the opportunity to celebrate something big together.”

Having sealed a deal for Brandt, Dortmund might attempt to tie down the highly sought-after Jude Bellingham to a new contract. The English midfielder is wanted by Liverpool, Manchester City and Real Madrid but could stay back at Signal Iduna Park beyond this summer after Liverpool pulled out of the race due to his price tag.

Meanwhile, Dortmund are still in the Bundesliga title fight and could still pip Bayern Munich to the title this season, given the Bavarians’ struggles.

Should they win the title, it will help them in future negotiations and could persuade Bellingham to stay.