Chelsea have agreed a two-year contract extension with academy graduate Alfie Gilchrist.
Such has been the 19-year-old's level of performance during his time in the youth ranks that he was named on the substitutes' bench for a Premier League fixture at Manchester United at the end of last season.
Gilchrist also featured in the squad for Sunday's encounter at Bournemouth, albeit failing to get on the pitch on each occasion.
Nevertheless, the defender was provided with game time by Mauricio Pochettino during Chelsea's pre-season tour of the USA.
Those outings came when it was unclear whether Gilchrist would look to remain at Stamford Bridge or consider a transfer elsewhere.
The centre-back had just a year left on his contract when making those appearances, with the situation attracting interest from Sheffield United.
Reports indicated that the newly-promoted Blades were prepared to include Gilchrist in their first-team squad for their first campaign back in the top flight.
However, a transfer never materialised, and Chelsea have now revealed that they have agreed fresh terms with the prospect.
Speaking to the club's official website, Gilchrist said: "When they call you in and tell you you're getting a new contract, it's a big achievement, and especially being a Chelsea fan and loving the club so much. It's extra special.
"My whole family are Chelsea. My dad still comes with me now, my grandad also loves Chelsea. They used to have season tickets, but I can help them now."
As it stands, Gilchrist is continuing to represent the Under-21s, making four starts with Chelsea winning two and losing two of their Premier League 2 fixtures.
Earning a full debut for Chelsea remains someway off, though, with Thiago Silva, Axel Disasi, Levi Colwill, Benoit Badiashile and Trevoh Chalobah all ahead of him in the pecking order during a season with no European football.
Gilchrist could still remain in the senior picture for the time being, however, with an EFL Cup tie at home to Brighton taking place before the end of September. body check tags ::
