CARLTON ruck-forward Tom De Koning has rejected strong interest from rival AFL clubs to sign a new two-year contract with the Blues.
The deal will keep the 24-year-old at Ikon Park until the end of 2025.
De Koning had been in the sights of Sydney, St Kilda and Geelong, with his brother Sam part of the Cats' premiership last season.
But De Koning said the people and environment at Carlton had led to his decision to stay put.
"This football club gives you everything you need as a player in that regard," De Koning said in a club statement.
"The relationships I have with my teammates are special. I don't take them for granted.
"I get to put on a Carlton jumper with my mates and run out in front of an incredible fan base every single week.
"You couldn't ask for anything more than that."
A second-round draft pick in 2017, De Koning has played 52 games for Carlton.
He was left out of the Blues' team earlier this season but coach Michael Voss has been impressed with De Koning's recent turnaround in form.
He has been a key contributor over the last fortnight as Carlton has extended its winning streak to five matches, reviving its finals hopes ahead of Friday night's blockbuster clash with Collingwood at the MCG.
"What I'm really pleased with is that he's playing some really good footy," Voss said.
"He's been able to get himself up as a ruck and the last couple of weeks has been really good.
"What we ask of him is to extend that into some forward line craft and that will just grow out his game and make it even stronger."
De Koning has at times shared ruck duties with Marc Pittonet, who has overcome a knee injury and will return to the senior side this week.
Pittonet's presence means De Koning will spend more time in attack as cover for injured key forward Harry McKay (knee) against the Magpies.
"Having that combination back (with Pittonet) is important to us," Voss said.
"It will be important for us now and it will be important for us moving forward."