After heightening the drama a bit this week, Jerry Manuel signed off on a two-year deal today to return as manager of the Mets. The contract is worth roughly $2 million, and there is a club option for the 2011 season that would make the total package $3.2 million. Manuel, who was 55-38 after replacing the fired Willie Randolph as manager on June 17, had balked for two days at signing the deal because he was unhappy with the length and the original money offer.

When former Mets manager Bobby Valentine publicly expressed interest in the job this morning, Manuel suddenly agreed to terms.

The news will surely be welcomed in the Mets’ clubhouse, where Manuel is a very popular figure for his calm, even-handed style. Manuel was brought back despite overseeing the second consecutive final-day collapse by the Mets.

Foxsports.com originally reported the agreement in principle.