Zouma sticks with St Etienne

Highly-rated defender Kurt Zouma has ended speculation surrounding his future by penning a contract extension at St Etienne.

Teenage defender pens new deal, as Diomande also signs up

Highly-rated defender Kurt Zouma has ended speculation surrounding his future by penning a contract extension at St Etienne. The 17-year-old, who has burst onto the senior scene this season, has signed up for another two years. Zouma is a product of St Etienne's academy system and has scored two goals in 18 appearances this term. His potential is clear for all to see and some of Europe's top clubs were believed to be closely monitoring his situation. He only penned his first professional contract in 2011, but has seen his rapid progress rewarded with fresh terms. Zouma is now tied to St Etienne until the summer of 2016. Meanwhile, Ismael Diomande has also committed his long-term future to the Ligue 1 outfit. The 19-year-old midfielder, who made his debut earlier this season, has agreed to a three-year extension.