Cherries are hoping to have fended off interest in Harry Arter after persuading the gifted playmaker to pen an improved three-year deal at the Seward Stadium.

Boss Lee Bradbury felt the midfielder warranted parity with the club’s top earners following a series of impressive displays this season.

Plucked by former manager Eddie Howe from Conference South outfit Woking 15 months ago, Arter initially signed a two-year deal with Cherries.

But the 21-year-old was restricted to 20 appearances – including 11 as a substitute – during a frustrating debut season when he was also farmed out on loan to Carlisle.

Arter was handed a new deal in February, extending his stay until at least 2013.

But having alerted a host of Championship clubs after showing eye-catching form this season, Cherries have moved swiftly to tie him to a contract until June 2014.

The Daily Echo understands Crystal Palace, Watford, Cardiff and Brighton have all been monitoring his progress this season.

And interest is understood to have intensified after Arter turned in arguably his best display for the club against Hartlepool six days ago – with Echo sources suggesting at least two clubs made enquiries for the player earlier this week.