Gold Coast Suns lock Matt Rowell in on two year-contract extension

After meeting with as many as four Victorian rivals, a former No.1 draft pick has made a big call on where his immediate future lies.

Gold Coast star Matt Rowell says the players are “building something special” at the Suns after signing a two-year contract extension to end speculation of an immediate move back to Melbourne for the former No.1 draft pick.

But the deal only ties him to the club until 2027, with Tasmania set to enter the AFL in 2028 and some suggestions it could offer Rowell up to $2m a season.

Rowell, 24, was being tempted by Victorian clubs including Geelong and Collingwood but has instead signing the two-year deal with the Suns who are pushing for a maiden finals appearance.

“I love this club and the opportunities I have had to develop as a person and player on the Gold Coast,” Rowell said.

“There’s a real hunger for success from everyone at the club. We’re not shying away from the fact we want to play finals and win premierships and that’s something I’m excited to be part of.

Matt Rowell is staying with the Suns. Picture: Morgan Hancock/Getty Images

“We are building something special. We want to win and make the Gold Coast community proud, and I’m looking forward to playing my role in achieving that in the years to come.”

Since notching up nine Brownlow Medal votes in his first four games, Rowell has become a key component in the Suns’ rise.

But his delay in signing a new deal on the Gold Coast prompted rumours he could be seeking a move back to Victoria.

He met with the Magpies, Cats, Essendon, and the Western Bulldogs over the past off-season and waited until June to confirm his future.

But he will also become a free agent at the end of his new deal.

“Matt has been an important part of our midfield for a number of seasons and it’s fantastic for him to have signed on for a further two seasons,” Gold Coast list boss Craig Cameron said.

Rowell is set to play his 99th AFL game this Saturday against Melbourne.

Originally published as Gold Coast Suns lock Matt Rowell in on two year-contract extension