Dedé extends contract with Vasco until 2015

Vasco have announced that Dedé has extended his contract with the club until 2015.

The 24-year-old defender has long been linked with a move to Europe, with the likes of AC Milan, Juventus, Manchester United and Liverpool all believed to be interested in the Brazil international.

However, Dedé has always stated his desire to remain at Vasco and has now committed his future to the Rio de Janeiro giants.

''I am very happy at Vasco and it is a great joy to be able to sign an extension,'' the centre-back told the club's official website.

''Now I have to repay their faith in me on the pitch and help the club win more titles. If God has his way, you will see me here for a long time.

''I would like to make it clear that financial matters were not key for me to stay. There were good offers but, as in everything in life, if it has to happen, it will happen at the right time.''

Brazilian newspaper Lance have reported that Dedé's buy-out clause is now set at €28 million.