Max Meyer: New deal at Schalke

The German youth international was being linked with a host of clubs, including Chelsea, but he has not but an end to the speculation by signing a three-and-a-half year deal.

Meyer made his league debut in February and has since emerged as a first-team regular - but he has now committed his future to the club.

"I am very happy about this new contract because I really like being at Schalke," he told the club's website.

"In addition there have been two important things for me: The club is putting trust in home-grown talents and it gives me the opportunity to play regularly in Europe even at this point of my development."

Schalke general manager Horst Heldt said: "Max Meyer signing a new contract is great news for our club.

"Many experts feel Max (Meyer) will have a big career in the game and his progress in those recent months already has been breathtaking.

"Therefore we are delighted to have signed a new long-term deal with another star from our youth academy!"