North Melbourne have confirmed a new two-year deal for forward Cam Zurhaar, who has turned down external interest to recommit to the club.

A pivotal part of North Melbourne's future, Zurhaar is secured to Arden Street until the end of 2024 after consecutive 31 and 34 goal seasons.

Essendon were named as a keen suitor for the 24-year-old, who had decided to hold off extension discussions with the Roos until after the regular season.

Beginning a new chapter under Alastair Clarkson, the Kangaroos are thrilled to have held onto their X factor forward.

"We are really pleased to have retained Cam's services," Kangaroos list and recruiting manager Brady Rawlings said.

HOBART, AUSTRALIA - MAY 14: Cameron Zurhaar of the Kangaroos celebrates a goal with Curtis Taylor of the Kangaroos during the 2022 AFL Round 09 match between the North Melbourne Kangaroos and the Port Adelaide Power at Blundstone Arena on May 14, 2022 in Hobart, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

"We know there was significant interest in Cam from opposition clubs, so it's a great show of confidence in where we are headed as a football club that he has decided to remain with us for at least two more years.

"Cam is a player of high calibre who we see playing a big part in our future, and we look forward to seeing where he can take his football."

Taken as pick 11 in the 2016 Rookie Draft, Zurhaar has defied expectations with his skilful goalkicking and body use in the forward line.

With both Zurhaar and 24-year-old key forward Nick Larkey signed up to 2024, the Kangaroos will enjoy at least two more years of the dangerous duo.