THE BRISBANE Lions are close to securing one of their most promising youngsters on a long-term deal, with Sam Mayes set to sign a new contract soon. 

Speculation surrounded Mayes' future when he put off contract talks with the Lions at the start of this year, keen to focus on making a strong start to the 2016 season.

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The South Australian had been linked to a possible return to his home state ahead of last October's trade period despite being contracted, and rival clubs suspected 2012's No.8 draft pick would move when his contract expired at the end of this season. 

But the Lions are set to get their man on what AFL.com.au understands will be at least a three-year deal, with just a few minor contract details still to be finalised.

Mayes' decision to recommit is a significant boost for the Lions given they have struggled to hang on to their early draft picks in recent years. 

The cream of their 2010 and 2011 draft crops – Elliot Yeo, Jared Polec, Patrick Karnezis, Billy Longer and Sam Docherty – left at the end of 2013 and their first pick that year, James Aish at No.7, departed in last year's trade period. 

At the end of last season, the Lions lured the highly regarded Craig Lambert from Greater Western Sydney to lead the club's player retention efforts, and Mayes' re-signing suggests this was an inspired decision.

The Lions will now turn to their attention to out-of-contract trio Lewis Taylor, Darcy Gardiner and Josh Green.

Mayes made a slow start to this season and was dropped after the Lions' round four win over Gold Coast, but he was recalled after just one week in the NEAFL and has not missed a game since. 

Playing predominantly across half-back, he has averaged 18 possessions and three rebound 50s a game since his recall. 

Mayes finished 10^th in the Lions' best and fairest award in each of his first two seasons before foot troubles restricted him to 14 games last year. 

He has played 64 games since making his debut in round three, 2013.