FREMANTLE has secured the prized signature of young midfielder Lachie Weller, who has agreed to a new two-year contract with the Dockers.
AFL.com.au understands Weller, who attracted significant interest throughout last month's trade period, including from St Kilda, will be tied to the club through to the end of 2018.
The Dockers confirmed Weller's two-year deal on Monday evening, along with the signature of fellow youngster Alex Pearce.
"I'm keen to head to into the pre-season with the certainty of staying at Fremantle," Weller said on the club's website.
"I've loved my time at the club. I can't wait to get into the pre-season and keep improving in every way. I'm still building my body and learning the physicality of AFL."
The Saints were keen to lure the 19-year-old to Melbourne to join brother Mav at the club, where he also has a close relationship with first-year defender Hugh Goddard.
But Weller has recommitted with the Dockers, where he seems likely to become a more regular member of their midfield next season with his pace and classy ball use.
Pumped about the 2 year extension with @freodockers looking forward to getting back into pre season next week and improving ⚓️
— Lachie Weller (@lachieweller) November 16, 2015
He played three games in his debut season in 2015, including a 16-disposal and five-tackle effort against Port Adelaide in round 23.
The professional and hard-working youngster was made to earn his debut game this season – not breaking into Fremantle's senior line-up until round 18 – but he showed strong signs of his talent.
The Dockers chose Weller at pick 13 at last year's NAB AFL Draft confident he would be a long-term member of their midfield mix after a strong season at under-18 level with Queensland and Southport.
He moved to the Gold Coast as a teenager with his family to be closer to Mav, who was then a member of Gold Coast's inaugural list.
Weller was then cut by the Suns but managed to win a rookie position at the Saints at the end of 2013.
The rugged midfielder has played 38 games in the past two seasons with St Kilda, and was a member of the club's leadership group this season.
Key defender Pearce, 20, played 13 games after making his debut in round six and appears the man most likely to fill the void left by retired defender Luke McPharlin.
"I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at Fremantle," Pearce said.
"I've played some AFL games this year and that was really exciting but my focus is now on playing more in 2016."
The Dockers' first pick at this year's draft will come at No.22 when names are called next week at the Adelaide Convention Centre.
