AFC Wimbledon have sent out a strong message to Tottenham and West Ham by tying down Ryan Sweeney to a long-term contract.
Sweeney has long been touted as a future Premier League star and the two clubs have sent scouts to monitor the young gun’s progress at Kingsmeadow this season.
Championship clubs Charlton and Huddersfield also made personal checks on the teenage defender.
The tall centre-half has made nine appearances for the Dons this season and has seized his chance following a knockout blow to Karleigh Osborne.
“My heart is set here. I want to play for Wimbledon,” Sweeney told Dons Player.
“Every day I come into training to try and better myself. Every time I put on the shirt I feel a sense of pride when I cross that white line.
“I’m delighted to sign a new contract with AFC Wimbledon .”
“The gaffer approached me and said he was going to offer me a new deal and I’m really pleased with it.
“I think I’ve progressed this season and especially over the last 18 months I feel I’ve come a really long way and my game has improved as a defender and also on the ball.
“Neil Cox and Alan Reeves have really transformed me, so I couldn’t thank them enough for this and obviously the gaffer for giving me my chance.
“Hopefully I can repay them for the work I’ve been doing this season.”
Meanwhile, AFC Wimbledon’s fixture with Portsmouth has been re-arranged for April 26 after it was postponed on Bank Holiday Monday.
