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Majak Daw signs three-year deal to stay at North Melbourne, but no word on Daniel Wells

EXCITING forward Majak Daw has signed a new three-year deal with North Melbourne announcing a string of re-signings — but Daniel Wells wasn’t one of them.

Majak Daw has re-signed with North Melbourne for three more years. Picture: Michael Klein
Majak Daw has re-signed with North Melbourne for three more years. Picture: Michael Klein

EXCITING North Melbourne forward Majak Daw has shunned interest from rival clubs to stay at the Kangaroos on a three-year deal.

Daw, 25, was among five Kangaroos to finalise new deals, but prized free agent Daniel Wells wasn’t one of them.

The Kangaroos are desperate to retain Wells, who continues to weigh up his future despite being offered a lucrative two-year deal to stay put.

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Forward Jarrad Waite, 33, and wingman Sam Gibson, 30, secured one-year extensions.

Wednesday’s signings capped an emotional day at Arden St with games-record holder Brent Harvey returning to the club to clean out his locker for the final time.

Majak Daw has signed a contract extension with North Melbourne. Picture: Michael Klein
Majak Daw has signed a contract extension with North Melbourne. Picture: Michael Klein

“That was a lot harder than I thought it would be ... Thanks for the memories. Will always love this club!” Harvey posted on Facebook.

Harvey was told on the eve of the finals series that his contract wouldn’t be renewed beyond this season.

The 38-year-old remains undecided on whether he will play on at another club next year.

With delisted veteran Drew Petrie out of the picture, Daw has a golden opportunity to cement his place in North’s attack alongside Waite, Ben Brown and Mason Wood.

“I’m really excited to sign another contract extension and remain at the Roos,” Daw said.

“I’ve been at North Melbourne since 2009 and couldn’t see myself playing anywhere else.

“The club has been great to me and so have the fans.”

The proud South Sudanese athlete, who has played 25 games in seven seasons, was thrust into the spotlight this year as injuries crippled the Kangaroos.

Waite missed a large chunk of the season battling a mystery hip complaint, while Wood had surgery on his knee.

Daw was unable to find continuity early in the year but managed to string together five consecutive games to finish the season off strongly.

Daniel Wells is yet to sign a new deal with North Melbourne. Picture: Michael Klein
Daniel Wells is yet to sign a new deal with North Melbourne. Picture: Michael Klein

He played a lone-hand up forward in the knockout finals loss to Adelaide, kicking four goals.

North Melbourne list manager Cameron Joyce praised Daw for his continued development.

“Majak has a big future ahead of him at North,” Joyce said.

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“His performances in the second half of the year, and in particular his four goal effort in the elimination final, showed what he is capable of.

“He has really made the most of his opportunities and the sky is the limit for him going forward.”

Developing Roos ruckman Braydon Preuss was elevated to the senior list and accepted a two-year extension, while rookie Will Fordham locked away a one-year deal.

Originally published as Majak Daw signs three-year deal to stay at North Melbourne, but no word on Daniel Wells

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Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/sport/afl/teams/north-melbourne/majak-daw-signs-threeyear-deal-to-stay-at-north-melbourne-but-daniel-wells/news-story/5ce05a0af28ca663ce97dd144aafa812