Benfica, Nicolas Gaitan agree to contract extension through June 2018

The defending Primiera Liga champions have secured the long-term services of their most valuable player.

Benfica announced late on Monday that the club has brokered an agreement with attacking midfielder Nicolas Gaitan.

"Benfica and the athlete, Nicolas Gaitan, have extended the employment contract for two more seasons up to June 30, 2018," read a statement on the club's website.

"The termination clause in the contract is set at 35 million euros.

"The Argentina international, 26, came to Luz on May 3, 2010, originating from Boca Juniors."

Gaitan has been linked with a move to Manchester United in recent years, but with this recent announcement, any club interested in acquiring his services will now have to reach very deep into their pockets to bring a deal to fruition.

- With translation from FOX Soccer