CHRIS Mepham says it is “massive” for Cherries to keep hold of their star assets this summer.

Ryan Fraser, Callum Wilson and David Brooks are among those whose impressive form this season has seen them linked with moves away from Vitality Stadium.

Chelsea had rumoured interest in a big money move for Wilson during the January transfer window while Arsenal are said to be keen on Fraser, whose contract expires in 2020.

Wales international Brooks, who has been nominated for the PFA Young Player of the Year award after an impressive debut season in the top flight, was rewarded with a new contract by the Dorset club last month.

And Mepham hopes the club will be looking to improve the squad over the summer, rather than cash in on some of their top talent.

Asked how important it is to keep this current squad together, the 21-year-old defender said: “I think it’s massive.

“Whenever you’re doing well in the team, you’re going to get interest from bigger teams.

“It depends on the club’s position and stance with those players, but they are obviously the most important players in the team and I think if you take them out it could be difficult.

“I think the club would love to keep hold of those sort of players and hopefully add and bring some other players through to hopefully contribute to a very good season next season.”