Emerging midfield talent Marcus Windhager has made a call on his future, electing to re-sign with St Kilda for four years.
The contract will see the 22-year-old enter free agency in 2029, with the budding star knocking back reported lengthier contract offers from rival clubs to stick with the Moorabbin-based outfit.
North Melbourne had reportedly tabled a five-year deal to Windhager but St Kilda's late play to raise their contract offer from two years to four has seemingly sealed the deal.
Windhager said in St Kilda's statement on Thursday that the belief is growing within the Saints group that greater success is not far away, which played a role in his recommitment to the club.
“We've been building something strong together over the past few years and I'm proud to play my role in that,” Windhager said.
“We know success doesn't come easy, but the belief we have in each other and the way we're sticking together gives us confidence that we can achieve something really special as a group.”
Executive General Manager of Football David Misson was thrilled to retain Windhager for the foreseeable future.
“Since joining us as a teenager via our Academy, Marcus has worked hard to become a reliable and versatile player who will leave no stone unturned in getting the best out of himself and those around him,” Misson said.
“His decision to recommit reflects the shared belief across the playing group in where we're heading and the collective determination to achieve it together.
“Marcus is one of many young players driving the standards on and off the field, and it's exciting to see this group continuing to grow as one.”
Windhager had been open to moving clubs in the search for more on-ball midfield opportunities, having primarily featured in a tagging role or on the wings this season. He averaged 22.1 disposals, 3.4 inside 50s and 4.7 score involvements per game in 2025, all career highs.
Windhager is the latest free agency domino to fall in the Saints favour as their dominant off-season continues, with the youngster joining Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, Mattaes Phillipou, Max Hall, Mitchito Owens, Jack Higgins and Hugh Boxshall as Saints players to sign extensions in 2025.
St Kilda will secure rival stars Tom De Koning, Jack Silvagni and Leek Aleer via free agency too, with premiership Eagle Liam Ryan also nominating Moorabbin as his preferred trade destination, seeking an exit from West Coast.
