Dundee United boss Mixu Paatelainen believes John Souttar's contract situation has been blown out of proportion and is confident that the player will remain at Tannadice.

Nineteen-year-old defender Souttar, who has already played over 70 games for the club, will be out of contract in the summer and is now free to talk to other clubs about a potential move at the end of the season.

An offer of a new deal was made by United but after Souttar and his representative declined the initial offer, it was withdrawn. Paatelainen said that didn't concern him and he believed there was a willingness on both sides to agree a new contract.

"Far too much has been said about the situation," the Finn said. "These situations happen all the time. It's not only John Souttar, it's not only Dundee United, it's every club.

"The contract was on the table for a long period, then nothing happened from the other side so it was taken off the table.

"Talks are ongoing and the feeling from both parties is that John stays here. And we will come to that conclusion.

"It's part of the negotiations and part of getting to that solution and signing that contract. Sometimes it's a straight road, sometimes there are a few bends. We will get there.

"Both the player and the club are willing to get that contract. John is a Dundee United boy and he wants to do everything for the club. He is determined to stay here and fight for the cause. It's a positive problem."

If Souttar does not agree a new deal then the defender could potentially sign a pre-contract with another club or be sold to ensure United get a fee for the player. Paatelainen said he wasn't worried about losing a player who could be key to their hopes of avoiding relegation.

He said: "I have no fears because it can happen so what's the point in fearing it? Any club can come in for any of our players and take them away for lots of money. Any player can go at any moment. But there's no problem.

"I trust we will come to a conclusion and John will stay here and develop here because I feel he is in good hands. He is a young player still and he plays every week. We want to keep him and John wants to stay here."