PARIS, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- Ligue 1 club Paris Saint-Germain announced on Thursday that France international goalkeeper Alphonse Areola has signed a four-year contract extension, tying him to the club until June 2023.

"It was very important for me to continue my career and my progress here at Paris Saint-Germain," said 2018 World Cup winner Areola after signing his new deal.

Born in Paris, Areola arrived at the club's academy in 2006 before rising through the ranks of PSG's youth system. He signed his first professional contract in July 2009.

The 25-year-old goalkeeper has played 85 matches in all competitions for PSG, winning a total of eight trophies.

"This is not just the club I've trained at, it is also in my heart," Areola said. "The club has given me the chance to pursue high ambitions alongside exceptional teammates. I believe in this club and in the chance to make unforgettable memories here."

Areola made his debut for France on September 6, 2018 in a UEFA Nations League match against Germany.

"Alphonse exemplifies the excellence of our youth academy. Ever since his very first days here, Alphonse has shown his fantastic desire to improve by working with the most experienced coaches and teammates," said PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, adding that Areola's contract extension "is a very strong signal of the confidence that we place and will continue to place in the players that we develop here." Enditem