MARCUS TAVERNIER has signed a new three-and-a-half year contract with Middlesbrough that commits him to the club until the summer of 2021.

Boro have moved quickly to tie the teenager down to a new long-term deal, with Arsenal and Everton both having been linked with a possible move for his services in recent weeks.

Tavernier has enjoyed a whirlwind six months that have seen him make his senior Middlesbrough debut and score his first senior goals.

The 18-year-old netted the winner in the Tees-Wear derby win over Sunderland, and also recently made his debut for England Under-19s.

"I'm absolutely delighted," said Tavernier, who will hope to be involved in Boro's Championship game at Millwall tomorrow. "It's been an unbelievable few months, but my main focus is to keep working hard.

"I'd like to thank the manager for giving me the opportunity and it's been a great experience, but I'm just focused on my football, whether that's playing with the Under-23s or being involved with the first team."