WESTERN Bulldogs star Marcus Bontempelli admits the opportunity to become a free agent at the end of 2021 played a part in him only signing a new two-year contract extension.

Bontempelli, who turns 23 on Saturday, had regularly said he wanted to remain at Whitten Oval after winning a premiership and two best and fairest awards in his first five seasons at the club.

While he hasn't sought the long-term deals fellow stars Dustin Martin (seven seasons) and Rory Sloane (five years) have inked, the gifted playmaker is happy to remain with an exciting young Dogs side for the next three seasons.

Asked by reporters on Tuesday why he re-committed for just two extra seasons, Bontempelli admitted free agency was a factor, but he and the club were comfortable with the length of the deal.

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"You've got to consider (free agency) with football now and the nature of the game, it's a consideration when it comes to contracts," Bontempelli said.

"There probably wasn't too much of a theory, to be honest, and I can understand the speculation around a long-term deal, but I think (those deals) suit particular players and clubs.

"Between myself and the club, we're both happy to extend for two, but I think most of all it keeps me accountable to grow more and be the best player I can be for the football club.

"The club has been home to me for so many years, so I don't see myself going anywhere else, and that was just the term we decided on."

In his first season as the Dogs' list manager, Sam Power said the vice-captain's recommitment was a huge boost for the club.

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Bontempelli joins Tom Liberatore, Mitch Wallis, Tory Dickson and Brad Lynch in re-signing in recent months.

"There's no doubting the importance of Marcus to our playing group, and we're obviously thrilled to have extended his contract," said Power.

"Marcus has a great presence on and off the field, he leads by example, he is mature beyond his years and he has so much footy ahead of him.

"Finalising the contract extension so early effectively means we've secured Marcus for three more years.  We're pleased with how the negotiations were handled by the club and his management team.

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"We look forward to seeing Marcus in the red, white and blue for a very long time to come."

With Bontempelli locked away, Power will now have to shift his attention to retaining reigning club champion Lachie Hunter and impressive youngsters Josh Dunkley, Bailey Williams and Lewis Young, who all fall out of contract at season's end.