Dundee United last night made their statement quietly, aware that its message would be loud and clear. The Tannadice club have agreed contract extensions with two of its most prodigious young talents - with Ryan Gauld and John Souttar both signing on until May 2016.

The announcement will stand out amid clamourous speculation linking the 17-year-olds with moves away from United. Souttar has already been the subject of bids from Barclays Premier League side Sunderland and the defender is also reportedly on the radar of Everton, whose manager, Roberto Martinez, has previously dipped into the Scottish market to sign James McArthur and James McCarthy during his time in charge of Wigan Athletic.

Gauld has perhaps become the more coveted of the pair, though, with scouts representing Real Madrid reported to have watched him this season. The forward has scored four times in 25 matches for United and has shown enough grace in possession to suggest that he will continue to stroll through matches in the SPFL Premiership.

The Tannadice club announced a contract extension until May 2015 has also been agreed with Scotland Under-19 captain Darren Petrie, who has recently been on loan at Brechin City, while 16-year-old full-back Euan Spark has agreed a contract until May 2016.

"This is very positive news for the club and its fans," Jackie McNamara, the United manager, said. "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 that 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 SPFL Premiership with United is the best option for that to continue."