His recent form, which includes 10 goals in his last seven games, has inspired the Larges Lane outfit to 10 wins from their last 11 outings.

With the 18-year-old tipped for future success at a higher level, the deal ensures that any club that wants to sign him will have to compensate Bracknell with an agreed fee.

The young midfielder has already courted the attention of other sides this year, with Reading Town making an approach in November and Hellenic Premier Division leaders Wantage Town attempting to sign him last month.

But now, with Barratt the first player to be under contract at Larges Lane since they were relegated from the Southern League in 2010, any club that wishes to sign him will have to stump up the cash.

And the midfielder is delighted to have the chance to give something back to the club that have nurtured him.

“I’m extremely proud to sign a contract for Bracknell Town FC,” he said. “I hope in the future this will help give back to the club as much as they have given me.

“It’s been a pleasure playing for Bracknell through the highs and lows. I’ve always been pushed and encouraged by those representing the club.” With Barratt in fantastic goalscoring form all season, including an effort from the halfway line against Highworth Town earlier this month, work has been taking place on the deal for a while.

Darrell Freeland, club secretary, said: “This is something the management team have wanted us to arrange for some time but it took a while to arrange all of the specifics.

“I am delighted we have been able to put Sam on a contract and hope that this security will allow his football to blossom even further”.

Barratt will be taking a year out from education in September in a bid to advance his football career.

And the man who has coached him over the past year, has no doubts about how good the 18-year-old is.

“The boy is unbelievable,” said Bracknell joint-boss Steve Nebbett. “He’s got everything, pace, power and a good attitude. He can score from anywhere. He listens to me, which is a good thing and he’s got a great attitude. He can go all the way.

“For me personally he is by far the best player in the league. I want someone to give him a chance whether that’s a Swindon Town, a Fulham or a Crystal Palace.”