AFL: Melbourne’s Angus Brayshaw and Richmond’s Liam Baker reject rival interest to re-sign at current clubs

Melbourne defender Angus Brayshaw has turned his back on free agency and an army of suitors to effectively commit the rest of his AFL career to the Demons.

The 26-year-old, who was a restricted free agent, had interest from several clubs, including Essendon, Geelong and even Fremantle, but has re-signed for another six seasons in a huge coup for Simon Goodwin’s side.

Melbourne has now locked away star trio Brayshaw, Clayton Oliver and Christian Petracca until 2028 and beyond.

It was a major morning for retention, with Richmond also announcing that important utility Liam Baker was sticking around at Punt Road for two more years, baulking at a potential move home to Perth.

The Demons were sweating on the decisions of both Brayshaw and young ruckman Luke Jackson more than any other players but can now focus on trying to retain the latter, who is weighing up a huge offer from Fremantle.

Melbourne list boss Tim Lamb said Brayshaw had emerged as a leader at the club and his long-term commitment was a “brilliant result”.

“His talent is obvious to all and his willingness to put the team first and play whatever role we need him to is a testament to his character,” Lamb said.

“This signing is another great endorsement for the culture we have created and we know Angus will continue to drive standards within the group.

“The versatility he has displayed across his career makes him an enormous asset to our club. The great thing is Angus still has enormous growth in his game and we are excited about what he will produce in the future.

“This deal means another key pillar of our playing group will play out his career with us, which is an important part of our strategy going forward.”

Brayshaw, who is in All-Australian contention after switching into defence this season after playing on the wing last year, told SEN on Monday that this would be the “most important” football decision he had made to date.

“I don’t want to be rushed into a decision or pressured into something that I’m not on board with, which hasn’t happened yet and isn’t going to happen,” Brayshaw said.

“There will be a time where I come out with something and make a decision.

“I’m making sure I absolutely nail this one … it’s the rest of my career we’re talking about, so it’s not something I’m taking lightly.”

Baker had genuine interest from West Coast, in particular, but instead of heading home to Western Australia he will be part of the Tigers’ bid to remain relevant post their three flags in quick succession.

They are fighting to avoid missing the finals for a second straight season and the former rookie promises to be a key figure for years to come.

Richmond’s general manager of football talent, Blair Hartley, said Baker’s influence extended beyond the field and was thrilled to retain him.

“He is very popular among players, staff and coaches, an excellent contributor to our culture, and an important part of our future,” Hartley said.

“Liam has worked extremely hard since coming to the club as a rookie selection from Western Australia and has been rewarded with individual and team success.

“We look forward to watching Liam continue to grow as a footballer, leader and person across the next two years and beyond.”