Mali international Seydou Keita has extended his time at Serie A club side Roma by signing a new deal that will see him stay on for an additional year in the Italian capital.

The 35-year-old midfielder joined the Giallorossi on a free transfer at the beginning of the 2014-15 season, on a one-year deal. That deal expired two weeks ago, but the club’s authorities were keen to ensure that he would remain in the Roma midfield for yet another season.

Keita scored two goals in 26 Serie A appearances during the past season, contributing to Roma’s second place finish in the Italian top flight, and earning him the respect of his peers and the club management.

Reacting to the contract extension, Keita told Roma’s official website that he turned down other offers to remain at the club.

“I turned down very lucrative offers to stay here, because the club and the fans have always shown me great respect and affection. I’m at a very important stage of my career, and I’m happy to renew with the team,” Keita said.

“It’s true that money is important, but at my age [35] respect and affection are also important. We’re starting a new season, and I hope that for myself and the team it’s better than last season,” he added.