Young star forward Ben King has re-signed with Gold Coast in a major boost for the Suns' long-term AFL ambitions.
The 21-year-old was due to come out of contract at the end of the 2022 season but was adamant on sticking with the struggling southeast Queensland club for another two years.
King turned his back on huge offers to return home to Victoria and will remain with the Suns until at least the end of the 2024 season.
"I've been thinking about it for the last year or so and there was never really any doubt to commit to the Suns," King said.
"I've been very lucky from the start in that I feel very well supported by the club and have a great group of mates up on the Gold Coast.
"I think we have a really great group of people and we're definitely building something special as we mature each year.
"The aim is to play finals and has been for the last couple of years. I think it's definitely within reach.
"I love the club and I'm really confident in the direction the club's heading."
The 202cm forward will miss the entire AFL campaign this year as he recovers from a torn ACL suffered last month.
King had surgery in Melbourne but is soon planning to fly back to Queensland to begin his recovery.
The talented goal-kicker remaining on the Gold Coast is promising news for the club that has often been unable to retain young talent.
Ever since King was drafted by the Suns with the No.6 pick in 2018, there has been speculation he would eventually play with twin brother Max at St Kilda.
King booted a career-high 47 goals last year, including a bag of five in a big win over Sydney in round six.
Gold Coast finished 16th last season, with pressure increasing on coach Stuart Dew as Alastair Clarkson's presence looms large with the four-time premiership mentor likely to return to an AFL club next year.
"We never had any doubt Ben would commit his future to the club, and after a number of other key players re-signing over the last 12 months, we are confident we have set our club up for sustained, long-term success," Suns player talent manager Craig Cameron said.
