GOLD Coast has locked away unrestricted free agent Alex Sexton long-term, extending his contract by a further four seasons.

Sexton, who topped the club's goalkicking last year and kicked four in the opening round against St Kilda, has signed on until the end of the 2023 season.

He was set to come off contract at the end of the season.

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After the dramas of losing co-captains Tom Lynch (free agent) and Steven May (traded) by the end of the 2018 season, Sexton's signature continues a period of consolidation for the Suns. 

Recently added to the club's leadership group for the first time, he joins co-captains Jarrod Witts and David Swallow and fellow leader Touk Miller on lengthy deals.

"I believe in the direction we are heading and I’m up for the challenges that are ahead of us," Sexton said.

“We’re a really tight team and we’re focussed on developing a culture and building an environment that will set us up for the long term.”

The 25-year-old played every game last season, finishing fifth in the best and fairest with his 28 goals in a new forward line role.

Sexton was drafted by the club with pick 88 in the 2011 NAB AFL Draft as a local talent access selection and made his debut the following year against the Western Bulldogs.