GREATER Western Sydney has secured midfielder Jacob Hopper for the next two seasons, with the young gun turning his back on rival offers to re-sign until the end of 2019.
Hopper, who had been in the sights of Victorian clubs including Geelong, Carlton and St Kilda, announced his decision at the club's family day on Saturday.
The 20-year-old's signature is a boost for the Giants ahead of their finals campaign, with the club now able to focus on locking away All Australian midfielder Josh Kelly.
Kelly is hot property after Richmond superstar Dustin Martin signed a seven-year deal to stay at Richmond, with North Melbourne now expected to focus on luring the Giants' star onballer.
What Giant demand will see Kelly head south?
GWS is also fighting to keep forward Devon Smith, with the Victorian in the sights of home-state clubs including Geelong.
Hopper shapes as an important cog in the Giants' midfield after returning from a finger injury in round 20.
He was recruited with pick No.7 in the 2015 NAB AFL Draft as a GWS Academy selection.
Our Family Fun Days are always special, but Jacob Hopper made today's even better by announcing some big news to the Orange Army! pic.twitter.com/SHBm8Jn3L5
— GWS GIANTS (@GWSGIANTS) September 2, 2017
The tough midfielder said the way the club had embraced him and his family meant it was an easy decision to recommit.
"This is my home and where I want to play football. I’m so excited for what’s to come with this group and I absolutely want to be a part of it," he said on the club's website.
"Heading into finals there is a really good buzz around the place and we're all excited for the challenge ahead."
GWS football manager Wayne Campbell said Hopper's re-signing was a boost for the club ahead of Thursday night's qualifying final against Adelaide at Adelaide Oval.
"He's a great kid who has shown real leadership. He's had some setbacks this season but we know it's made him stronger and more resilient," Campbell said.
"We know what he's capable of on the field and we are looking forward to seeing him go from strength to strength in the coming years."
.@JacobHopper02's just announced to the Orange Army at our Family Fun day that he's re-signed until at least the end of 2019. pic.twitter.com/FE7CmTKhBQ
— GWS GIANTS (@GWSGIANTS) September 2, 2017