Essendon defender Michael Hurley has re-signed with the Bombers.

Hurley, who is already contracted for 2017, has signed a five year deal worth a reported $800,000 per season, taking him up to the end of the 2022 season.

The 26-year-old was reportedly being chased by several Victorian clubs, including St Kilda, Western Bulldogs and Collingwood.

The club released the following statement a short time ago:

"Essendon Football Club is thrilled to announce All-Australian defender, Michael Hurley, has secured his long-term future at the Bombers after agreeing to a new five year contract extension.

The 26-year oldโ€™s new deal will see him run out in the red and black until the end of season 2022.

Hurley said he was looking forward to being reunited with his teammates.

โ€œI took the time I needed to come to this decision, and to be honest I couldnโ€™t see my future anywhere other than Essendon,โ€ Hurley said.

โ€œWhat became clear was my strong bond with the playing group, I have some really great mates at the Club, weโ€™ve made a lot of progress and I want to achieve success alongside them.

โ€œThe Club has made significant changes, John has had a huge impact in a short period of time and Iโ€™m looking forward to playing under him next season and beyond.โ€

Chief Executive Officer, Xavier Campbell, said Hurleyโ€™s recommitment is a significant show of faith in the direction of the football Club.

โ€œMichael is an extremely loyal person who loves his teammates, and we are extremely pleased heโ€™s going to be a Bomber for the next five years,โ€ Campbell said.

โ€œWeโ€™ve always felt confident Michael would remain at the Club due to the positive discussions we had with him and his management, and Iโ€™m sure our members will be thrilled to see him โ€˜don the sashโ€™ again in 2017.

โ€œMichael feels confident in the direction of the Club, and is looking forward to resuming his career under John and working towards helping the Club achieve success.โ€

Senior Coach, John Worsfold, said Hurleyโ€™s return will help strengthen the team both on and off the field.

โ€œWeโ€™ve got a really clear ambition for where we want to get to as a football Club, and Iโ€™m really pleased ย Michael wants to be a part of that shared vision,โ€ Worsfold said. ย 

โ€œWe all know the exceptional football talent Michael possesses. Heโ€™s a ruthless competitor, strong around the contest and will provide us with great versatility at both ends of the ground.

โ€œMichael leads by example, shows genuine care for his teammates, and will play a pivotal role in upholding the elite standards that will help us achieve our goal of becoming a top side in the competition.โ€ย 

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