EXCLUSIVE
In-demand AFL star Luke Davies-Uniacke has pledged his future to North Melbourne in a massive boost for the club.
Davies-Uniacke is contracted until the end of next year when he qualifies for a free agent, but already clubs are throwing themselves at him.
Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today
7NEWS Melbourne chief AFL reporter Mitch Cleary said St Kilda are at the front of chasing pack with long-term offers believed to be around $1.5m a season.
The 25-year-old will play his 100th game this week, but has only been involved in 19 wins.
However, he believes the tide is turning and wants to be a part of the future.
“I think, going forward, where I see myself is playing for North Melbourne, that’s for sure,” he told 7NEWS
“When I think about North it’s always been a family club and the culture of the club’s awesome, they’ve shown the faith in picking me up in the draft, I’d love to repay that favour and no doubt the club and my manager can get something done by next year that’s for sure.”
The comments will be music to the ears of North Melbourne fans.
Davies-Uniacke has been of the Kangaroos’ best players since he was drafted to the club with pick No.4 in the 2017 AFL draft.
His hot form and contract status has seen his future constantly been discussed.
“There’s been a fair bit of attention about it, it’s something I’ve had to stay away from. It wasn’t too great to look at constantly most days,” he said.
Now a senior member of the Roos’ midfield, Davies-Uniacke is keen to help rising stars such as Harry Sheezel, George Wardlaw, Colby McKercher and Will Phillips shine.
“Whatever I’m telling them, I’ve got to do myself so if it’s defensive acts or anything like that, I’ve got to show it as well,” he said.
“I can really relate because i struggled with it coming through the ranks.”
Davies-Uniacke also spoke about how working with Jiu Jitsu black belt Max Viney — brother of Melbourne star Jack — has helped him burst from stoppages.
“A lot of the stuff we’ve been trying to stay in the moment of being tackled and have to break the tackle and using their momentum against theirs,” he said.
The Roos will searching for their second win of the season when they face the Western Bulldogs on Saturday.
But they will be without Wardlaw, who will miss the next two weeks after suffering a concussion at training.