The 20 year-old starlet is yet to agree terms with Sydney despite a contract offer from the A-League club as it assembles a squad to compete in the FFA’s inaugural national youth league.

“I only want the Sydney FC youth contract to be for a year," said Gan. "I cut it down, which allows me to possibly go overseas or consider other offers that might come up in the future.

“Just to give myself options, rather than being stuck on one contract for two years.”

Gan’s impressive form for the Sharks this season also attracted the attention of the Central Coast Mariners but the logistical difficulties of playing for last season’s runners-up means that the youngster will most likely be joining Sydney’s youth team.

“I’ve been in trials with Sydney FC and the Mariners youth teams over the past couple of months," he added.

“They both rang up and we were discussing terms but it really came down to the distance from my place; I live in the Sutherland shire.”

The attacking midfielder sees the youth contract as a potential pathway into the senior Sydney FC squad but realises the offer does not guarantee A-League football.

“I’ve got to just be consistent and not rest on my laurels; getting into youth team doesn’t assure me a place in the senior side,” he said.

Despite a general lack of knowledge about the proposed league, Gan is appreciative of the opportunity to showcase his talents on a national stage.

“With the youth league, since it is the first year of its existence, no-one really knows what is going to happen to it, so it is a bit of a ‘mystery league’ in that sense.” the midfielder said.

“But it is good to be able to step-up into the youth league, to get your name out there and show how you play.”

As well as local interest for the Shire talent, there are also a number of overseas clubs who have offered Gan the opportunity to trial.

“I’ve got a few contacts within the Sutherland club for overseas clubs,” Gan said.

“There hasn’t necessarily been interest to sign me permanently but there’s been expressions of interest from clubs overseas for me to go over and trial with them.”

Despite contract offers and speculation about the player’s future, Gan maintains he is fully focused on finishing the season successfully with the Sharks.

“I’m definitely still keeping my mind on Sutherland, having made it to the finals and now being so close to winning the competition," he said.

"Sutherland are my priority.”

Gan also thanked the club for their professionalism and assistance in accommodating for his potential move.

He added: “The club have been really professional about it.

"Brian [Brown] and the management at Sutherland want me to succeed and they’ve been helping me out however they can.”