Carlton ruck-forward Tom De Koning has officially recommitted to the Blues, signing a two-year extension and tying his future to Princes Park until the cessation of the 2025 season.
The sought-after Blue has turned his back on multiple offers from rival clubs, with the likes of St Kilda and Sydney said to be snapping at Carlton's heels, as well as a deal that would have seen him join forces with younger brother Sam at Kardinia Park.
First reported by SEN on Thursday, the 24-year-old has made his Navy Blue recommittal official, coming to a final agreement with Carlton on a fresh contract.
"When I was making my decision it came down to the two most important things; the people and the environment. This football club gives you everything you need as a player in that regard," De Koning said in a Carlton club statement on Thursday.
"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 โ you couldn't ask for anything more than that."
"The support the entire football club provides really makes this an elite environment, and I'm excited to play my role in helping us go after success for years to come."
Carlton list boss Nick Austin expressed his pleasure at being able to officially retain De Koning, noting the youngster's continuing progression.
"Tom continually impresses with his aerial craft and has really shown consistency in his form. His athleticism is clear but his skill set is still developing, not only as a ruck but also as a forward, which is exciting for our side over the coming years," Austin said as part of Thursday's statement.
"Since arriving at the end of 2017, he has grown so much under the guidance of ruck coach and former teammate Matthew Kreuzer. He has adapted really well to the rigours of the game and the position he plays.
"Tom's work rate and drive to just get better every day is really underrated: this year alone he has shown great resilience to go to work, improve his game and produce some really strong performances at AFL level.
"What we love about Tom is that he is a really positive and upbeat person who continually looks out for his teammates both on and off the field.
"Still just 24 years of age, we cannot wait to see him grow and further develop his craft and we are excited to see what he can do in Navy Blue over the next few years."
De Koning's deal will see him next come out of contract at the completion of the 2025 season, a time at which he will have met the markers to qualify for restricted free agent status.
Carlton enters the straight towards September with a number of players coming off contract at season's end, including Caleb Marchbank, David Cuningham, Ed Curnow, Jack Silvagni, Lachie Plowman, Mitch McGovern, Paddy Dow, and third-generation Blue Jack Silvagni.
