Aberdeen midfielder Craig Storie is out of contract at the end of the season but manager Derek McInnes is confident he can keep the promising youngster at Pittodrie.
The 20-year-old has produced a series of impressive displays since being handed a first start of the season against Ross County last month.
With captain Ryan Jack and Willo Flood both sidelined by hamstring injuries, Storie has made the most of an unexpected opportunity.
Storie played a pivotal part in helping the Dons defeat Celtic 2-1 earlier this month with a mature performance which belied his inexperience.
Manager McInnes believes Storie’s sights are set firmly on earning a new deal with the Dons.
The Dons have been burned in the past, losing players such as midfielder Ryan Fraser who left for Bournemouth in January 2013 in a deal worth £400,000 not long after breaking into the first team.
Storie turned down the advances of Manchester United as a teenager and McInnes said: “We’ve spoken to Storie and we are well aware of who is out of contract and who we want to stay for next season.
“He’s a good lad who is now able to get an opportunity because he’s stayed fit and it’s great he has contributed as well as he hasin the last few games.
“He’s somebody I have a high regard for, he is enjoying being here and we’re enjoying having him. There won’t be a problem there.”