DAVID Brooks penned a new long-term contract at Cherries and admitted he had “loved every minute” at the Dorset club.

The versatile attacker, who joined from Sheffield United last summer, has been one of the shining lights of Cherries’ fourth season in the Premier League.

Three times a winner of the club’s Michael Matthews player-of-the-month award, Brooks told the club website: “When talks started about a new deal it was something I wanted and it didn’t take long to sort out.

“When I arrived at the club, not many people would have anticipated the start I have made – myself included.

“I’m happy with the amount of games I’ve played and the performances I’ve put in for the team.

“I’ve loved every minute of my time here so far and I’m really happy to extend my contract.”

In an exclusive interview with the Daily Echo in January, Brooks distanced himself from speculation linking him with Manchester United and Tottenham.

The Warrington-born star said his focus was firmly on Cherries in the wake of The Sun’s claims that United and Spurs were prepared to pay around £40m for his services.

Cherries boss Eddie Howe said: “David impressed everyone from the minute he stepped through the door, with his mature, creative performances on the pitch backed up by a good attitude and professional lifestyle off it.

“This contract means he can concentrate on developing his game. It’s been an excellent start to David’s AFC Bournemouth career.”

Howe made Brooks his first signing of last summer when the Wales international joined for a fee understood to be £10m, potentially rising to £11.5m.

The Blades are thought to have inserted a sell-on clause into the agreement for the youngster, who had made 37 appearances for the South Yorkshire club and had been linked with Liverpool.

Brooks, who penned a four-year contract at Vitality Stadium, quickly became a key member of Howe’s starting XI.

He has bagged six goals and four assists in 23 Premier League appearances and could be in the running to be named young player of the year by the Professional Footballers’ Association.

The 21-year-old made his comeback from an ankle injury in the 1-0 defeat to Manchester City on Saturday, having spent a month on the sidelines.

Cherries chief executive Neill Blake said: “I am delighted that we have agreed a new long-term contract with David.

“This club prides itself on buying young, talented players and developing them, and in the short time David has been with us, he has already made great strides.

“He is an integral part of what we are trying to achieve, as the club looks to secure a fifth successive season in the Premier League."