Andrew Gaff tells West Coast he’s staying, rejects North Melbourne

CONFIRMED: WEST Coast’s Andrew Gaff has made the huge call to stay with the Eagles, rejecting North Melbourne’s multimillion-dollar offer. He reveals why he’s decided to stay.

Andrew Gaff will re-sign with the Eagles. Picture: Michael Klein

WEST Coast’s Andrew Gaff has made the huge call to stay with the Eagles.

The Herald Sun has confirmed the free agent has informed the club of his decision and is expected to sign a long-term deal worth around $900,000 a year.

North Melbourne had tried to lure the 26-year-old with a multimillion-dollar offer but has missed out.

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The Kangaroos were informed on Sunday.

Gaff, who took his time to consider his options, revealed on Sunday the potential to achieve success with the Eagles was the key.

“I am very happy and I’m looking forward to building on the strong relationships that have been forged over the last eight years,” Gaff said.

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“I want to be a part of team success. It was unfortunate that I could not be a part of the Grand Final, just as it was for Nic Naitanui and Brad Sheppard. We know there are no guarantees, but with the rest of the squad I will start pre-season with the aim of creating another opportunity.”

Andrew Gaff will re-sign with the Eagles. Picture: Michael Klein

West Coast football boss Craig Vozzo said the club was thrilled to retain the star midfielder despite the huge offer from North Melbourne.

“Andrew had a lot to consider in making what was a complex decision and we couldn’t be happier that he has re-committed to the club and his teammates,” he said.

“He is a young man of exemplary character and is universally respected across all levels of our club.

“Andrew is a real leader at our club and has been an integral part of our playing group for many years. At 26 years of age, we feel his best footy is still ahead of him, which is exciting for everyone.

“We look forward to Andrew continuing to build on what has been an outstanding contribution to our club.”

It means the Roos have tried hard but ultimately failed to land another superstar midfielder after missing out on brilliant ballwinners Dustin Martin, Isaac Heeney, Adam Treloar and Josh Kelly.

However, the Roos are certain to go even harder at Kelly with another $1.5 million-a-year contract next season.

Gaff didn’t play in the Grand Final due to suspension but says the potential for success was a key factor in staying at West Coast.

Kelly is out of contract at the end of next year.

But the Roos are still set for a busy fortnight as the club closes in on Port speedster Jared Polec, Gold Coast’s Aaron Hall and GWS backman Jeremy Finlayson.

Gaff’s signature is huge coup for Adam Simpson’s men as the Eagles chase back-to-back flags next year.

He is one of the best wingman and most prolific ballwinners in the competition.