One of the AFL's hottest out-of-contract players has put pen to paper at Western Bulldogs.
Joel Freijah has signed a fresh three-year deal, tying him to the club until the end of the 2029 season.
The 2023 draftee had a breakthrough 2025, playing every game for Luke Beveridge's side and thriving when given midfield opportunity.
He is set to play an even more prominent role in the middle this season, having trained heavily in there throughout pre-season.
The 191cm player looks set to be the long term successor to current skipper Marcus Bontempelli as the focal point of the next generation of the club's midfield.
The club sees him as a critical part of its future, impressed by his professionalism since arriving.
Industry speculation had his price on the open market at upwards of $800,000 per year.
“It's obviously awesome to extend to the end of 2029, the main reason being just the love I have for the club,” Freijah said.
“They gave me the opportunity and took a chance on me at Pick 45 back in 2023, and I'll forever be in debt to the club for that. I love being around the boys here and playing for the Western Bulldogs.
“I want to be a one-club player for life. I want to bring success and a premiership to this club.
“(We have) a great bunch of boys and a lot of talent throughout the group…I'm excited for what's ahead.”
