Mitch McGovern re-signs at Carlton until end of 2026 season

The good news continues to roll in at the Blues, with one of their most consistent performers of 2023 inking a new deal to keep him at Ikon Park for the foreseeable future.

MELBOURNE – June 11: AFL. Mitch McGovern of the Blues during the round 13 AFL match between Carlton and Essendon at the MCG on June 11, 2023, in Melbourne, Australia. Photo by Michael Klein.

Carlton’s important intercept defender Mitch McGovern has signed a new two-year deal – with the trigger for a third year – that could see him remain at the Blues until the end of the 2026 season.

McGovern, 28, put pen to paper on Tuesday on a greatly reduced figure from his previous contract, repelling interest from rival AFL clubs.

It is understood his trigger for a third year is not onerous which would likely see him play on until his early 30s with the club.

The deal is understood to be between $400,000-$500,000 per season, a huge reduction on the deal he signed to come to Carlton from Adelaide in late 2018.

That deal, which runs out this year, yielded him around $800,000 per season.

It is understood his strong relationship with coach Michael Voss played a huge part in his decision to stay, as well as his connection to the group, which is about to play in Carlton’s first finals series since 2013.

McGovern’s strong form has been rewarded. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Carlton head of list management Nick Austin said the Blues were delighted to have McGovern recommit to the club.

“It is terrific to have Mitch re-sign with the Club until 2025. He’s had a really solid year as part of our defence, his most consistent with the Club so far,” Austin said.

“Mitch has slotted seamlessly into the backline since making the move, his intercept marking and ball use have been terrific assets to the way we want to play.

“We can’t wait to see what the next two years hold for Mitch at the Blues as he continues to hone his defensive craft and take his game to another level.”