North Melbourne has received a significant post-season boost with highly rated defender Scott Thompson agreeing to terms for a new contract.

The 25-year old will remain at Aegis Park for three more years after paperwork is lodged with the AFL early next week.

“We’re rapt to have completed this new deal with Scott,” North chief of football Donald McDonald told kangaroos.com.au.

“He has become an integral part of our backline and we look forward to seeing his continued development and growth as a footballer in the years to come.”

Thompson averaged 18 disposals in 2011 and has become one of the club’s most important players.

In round 10, Thompson was a standout playing on Adam Goodes. He negated the Swans’ captain’s influence and collected 19 possessions, five marks and two goals.

“This latest signing is a really good indication that the players are really on board with the direction of this football club and its determination to succeed.”

Thompson has played 72 games since being taken in the 2007 National Draft. His signing comes after the announcement of new contracts for Brent Harvey, Drew Petrie, Aaron Edwards, Scott McMahon, Jamie Macmillan and Cameron Pedersen.