Michael Laudrup ends speculation by signing new contract at Swansea

The Dane had been linked with Chelsea and Real Madrid

Swansea manager Michael Laudrup has ended speculation over his future by signing a new contract.

The deal will see the former Denmark international stay at the Liberty Stadium until June 2015, extending his current deal by a year.

Currently in his first season in south Wales, the former Real Madrid player led the Swans to the first major trophy in the club's history when they defeated Bradford 5-0 in the Capital One Cup final.

"We've started something this season that I want to continue," Laudrup told the club's official website.

"I know there has been a lot of speculation (about my future), but I've always said that I am happy here and I never had any doubts I would stay."

Laudrup has found himself linked with Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester City, and a recent poll of the fans of the Spanish giants showed 72 per cent wanted him to succeed Jose Mourinho at the Bernabeu.

But with a Europa League campaign lying ahead for Swansea next season, Laudrup wants to carry on the good work he has started.

"I am delighted to sign the new deal and I'm already really looking forward to next season," he said.

"I hope there will be some very exciting things happening with the team and with the club in Europe."

Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins had long made clear his desire to tie Laudrup to a longer-term deal and provide the club with more security.

Jenkins was particularly wary having seen Roberto Martinez, Paulo Sousa and Brendan Rodgers all leave the south Wales club during their climb through the leagues.

And he is delighted to have agreed terms with his manager as Swansea enjoy arguably the finest season in their 101-year history.

"This is a major boost for everyone involved with Swansea City, from the players, staff and board of directors through to the most important people of all, our supporters," said Jenkins.

"You can never guarantee how things will work out when you employ a new manager, especially after the success we've had in recent seasons, but I think everyone has seen for themselves that Michael has helped take this football club to another level.

"He is a pleasure to work with because he shares the same philosophy as everyone at this football club. He has ensured that we have progressed again this season and I am convinced his knowledge, experience and expertise will ensure we keep moving forward for the next few years."

Laudrup's contract extension is just the latest in a string of new contracts the club have agreed with key personnel.

The likes of top scorer Michu, Leon Britton, Ashley Williams, Wayne Routledge, Ben Davies and Garry Monk have all agreed new deals during the course of the current season.

Full-back Angel Rangel is another to have agreed terms after the club announced a new three-year deal for the Spaniard, securing his services until the summer of 2016.

Rangel said: "I am settled here, I am enjoying my football, I have married a Welsh girl and I'm building a house in Swansea - I feel like a Welshman now.

"I am very happy on a personal and professional level."