Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal was happy to see Chris Smalling put pen to a new contract.

The former non-league centre-back has extended his deal with the Red Devils until the summer of 2019 which van Gaal believes is great news for the club.

"Chris has improved and developed immensely during the short time that I have been at the club and has become an integral part of the first-team squad," said the Dutchman.

"He always conducts himself in a very professional manner and it is also pleasing that he has scored some important goals this season too. I am delighted he has signed a new contract."

Smalling, who arrived at United from Fulham in 2010, was being linked with a potential move to Arsenal in January and it was believed that the Gunners were still keen on making a move in the summer.

However, that notion has been put to rest with the signing of Smalling's new Old Trafford deal.