Louis Danquah and Tyler Blake sign pro deals with Mansfield Town

Defender Louis Danquah, who can operate at left-back or centre half, was a regular in last season’s title-grabbing team and has put pen to paper along with versatile striker Tyler Blake, another key member in the young guns’ 2016-17 campaign.

The pair, who have spent two years in the Stags’ youth team based at Brooksby Melton College, are expected to play regularly in the new U21s squad next season which will compete in the Central League.

Danquah, 18, formerly with Nottingham Forest, said: “It’s good to put pen to paper on my first professional contract and I’m now looking forward to the season.

“Signing this contract means a lot me. I’ve been working hard for a long time to get to this stage.

“I want to keep challenging myself to keep improving as both a player and a person and push towards the first team.”

Frontman Blake, who netted a hat-trick in a 4-0 win against Oldham Athletic in the penultimate match of last season, signed on the dotted line with his team-mate Danquah at One Call Stadium this afternoon.

“I’ve been working so hard to become a professional footballer – it has been a dream of mine which has now come true,” said the 18-year-old.

“I want to impress the gaffer (Adam Murray) and the coaches with my ability and hard work.

“I’m looking forward to the U21 games next season – it should be an exciting division to play in,” he added.

Manager Adam Murray said: “Both Louis and Tyler have progressed from last season’s successful youth team and have since spent pre-season with the first team squad.

“It is a very big step from the youth to first team so we have to make sure that the process is right for both players.”

The players’ registrations will be completed subject to Football League ratification.