In-demand Roo rejects free agency, signs monster new contract

Luke Davies-Uniacke celebrates a goal during North Melbourne's clash with Melbourne in round 15, 2024. Picture: AFL Photos

LUKE Davies-Uniacke has rejected the lure of a free agency move, instead signing a lucrative long-term deal to remain at North Melbourne.

Davies-Uniacke on Friday inked a seven-year deal that ties him to the Kangaroos until the end of 2032. AFL.com.au's Cal Twomey reports the deal is believed to be worth about $1.3 million a season across the life of the contract.

News of North's monster offer to Davies-Uniacke broke on AFL.com.au in January amid rival interest headed by St Kilda. It was revealed on AFL.com.au's trade and draft show Gettable in March that he would be staying at Arden Street, and wasn't interested in rival offers.

The 25-year-old was selected with pick No.4 in the 2017 AFL Draft and has delivered on his promise in recent seasons, becoming one of North Melbourne's most potent weapons as the club rebuilds under Alastair Clarkson.

Clarkson said in February that it wouldn't be "the end of the world" if the star on-baller decided to pursue a free agency move but that outcome had become increasingly unlikely in recent weeks as the Roos made an improved start to their 2025 campaign.

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"Luke is a very important and much-loved member of our playing group, so to have him sign on for seven more years is brilliant news for us and our supporters," Rawlings said.

"His long-term commitment despite significant interest from other clubs is also a fantastic show of confidence in our program and the future of the club.

"At 25, Luke has plenty of great football still ahead of him, and we look forward to watching him deliver it here at North Melbourne.”

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