Meyer extends Schalke stay until 2018

FC Schalke 04 have received a boost by convincing highly rated 18-year-old Max Meyer to extend his contract with the club until June 2018.

Previously tied to the Königsblauen until 2015, Meyer has signed a three-year extension after impressing in both the Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League this season. "I am very happy with this new contract because I feel very comfortable here," explained Meyer. "Two things were important for me: the club gives players of their youth teams the chance to prove themselves and I am able to play international football at a young age."

The attacking midfielder joined Schalke's youth ranks in 2009 and has made 24 competitive appearances for the Gelsenkirchen club since making his debut in February last season. "It is fantastic news for the club," said Schalke's sporting director Horst Heldt. "Many experts believe that Meyer will have a long and successful career in football. His development over the past few months has been breathtaking. It is great that Schalke have managed to sign a new, long-term contract with a player of his potential."

Currently third in UEFA Champions League Group E, Schalke host FC Basel 1893 on 11 December needing to defeat the Swiss outfit to make the knockout phase.