Josep Maria Bartomeu: 'Gerard Pique best centre-back in world'

Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has claimed that Gerard Pique is the "best centre-back in the world".

The 27-year-old officially signed a new five-year deal with the club earlier today and is among the favourites to be handed the captain's armband for the 2014-15 season.

"It is very important to consolidate Gerard Pique at Barcelona," Bartomeu told the club's official website.

"He's the best centre-back in the world and he is a core part of the new project here at Barcelona."

Pique has won four La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies since returning to the Catalan outfit from Manchester United in 2008.