Dundee United have persuaded four of their prize assets to sign contract extensions with the club.
First-team teenage regulars John Souttar and Ryan Gauld, who have been the subject of intense speculation linking them with a host of other clubs, have put pen to paper on new deals tying them to Tannadice until May 2016.
Sixteen-year-old full-back Euan Spark has also extended his contract until 2016, while Scotland Under-19 captain Darren Petrie, who has just spent a month out on loan at Brechin City, has pledged his future to United until May 2015.
The news regarding Souttar and Gauld in particular will be welcomed by all United fans as the 17-year-olds have been outstanding since breaking in to the first team.
Souttar recently turned down the chance to join English Premier side Sunderland after United accepted a bid from the Black Cats.
The central defender was keen to continue his footballing education at Tannadice but his name is still being linked to other clubs. Just yesterday, Everton were reported to be poised to make a £1 million bid for the youngster.
United boss Jackie McNamara expressed his delight the quartet, all products of the Tannadice youth academy conveyor belt of outstanding talent, had agreed to extend their deals.
He said: “This is very positive news for the club and its fans. These four lads demonstrate exactly what we are trying to achieve at Dundee United.
“Ryan and John have already made the step up into the first-team squad and Euan and Darren have both experienced being with the first team.
“Ryan and John have shown they see their future at the club and indicated a determination to continue their football education at Tannadice.
“They have made great progression in their young careers so far and developing in the Scottish Premiership with United is the best option for to continue.”
He added: “Darren and Euan have earned these extensions by showing the correct application and desire. I will be looking for both to push for more first-team squad opportunities as this season develops.
“United fans should rightly enjoy this news. Extending the contracts of such promising players gives security and also highlights this is a club which will give opportunities to young players who show the correct attitude and ability levels.
“These lads are a part of vibrant set-up we have in place at Dundee United.”