JOSH Kelly might be the man of the moment when it comes to contract speculation, but Greater Western Sydney star Dylan Shiel has quashed any doubts over his future by re-signing with the Giants.
Details emerged last week that North Melbourne had offered Kelly a nine-year deal to join the club at the end of the year when his current contract runs out, reportedly worth around $1million per season.
Shiel, 24, was also due to come out of contract at the end of this season, but just as he said he would when he spoke to AFL.com.au at the Giants' season launch in January, the gun midfielder has committed to a new two-year deal, tying him to the club until at least the end of 2019.
One of the most explosive power runners in the league, Shiel averaged 27.8 possessions in 23 games last year, and has taken that form into this season, gathering 25-plus touches in each of the Giants' opening three games.
Shiel, a member of the Giants' leadership group for the past two years, has played 90 senior games after being signed as a 17-year-old priority selection in 2010, and said he never really considered leaving.
"I've been here from the start and have seen this club develop over the years," he said.
"We're a close playing group and Sydney is home for me.
"We've built a strong culture and a loyal fan base and I'm really looking forward to helping the Giants continue to grow."
GWS football manager Wayne Campbell said Shiel's new contract was another significant milestone for the Giants.
"We're delighted to have Dylan re-commit," he said.
"He continues to develop as a leader of this club and is a big part of our future.
"To have Dylan join Jon Patton, Zac Williams, Adam Tomlinson and Matt Flynn in re-committing to the Giants already this year is important for both the present and the future of the club."
GWS will now hope to secure Kelly's signature and the club remains confident of convincing the young star to commit, despite the extraordinary interest from the Kangaroos.
Academy products Jacob Hopper, Harrison Himmelberg and Matthew Kennedy, skilful forward Devon Smith, and reliable defender Matt Buntine are other Giants yet to commit beyond this season.
