LINCOLN McCarthy is set to be rewarded for his breakthrough 2016 with a new deal that will keep him at Geelong until the end of next season.

The small forward faced a make-or-break season after playing just five games in his first four years at Simonds Stadium, with a succession of foot and back injuries severely interrupting his development.

McCarthy, 22, has enjoyed a largely injury-free run this year and has made the most of it, playing 14 games and kicking 12 goals.

AFL.com.au understands McCarthy's form has earned him a new agreement for 2017, which includes a games-based trigger clause for him to continue with Geelong in 2018.

The parties are believed to have agreed to terms on the deal, with a contract expected to be executed shortly.

McCarthy has emerged as the Cats' No.1 small forward this season, overtaking Cory Gregson and Darcy Lang.

At 178cm, he is strong overhead, courageous and applies ferocious defensive pressure.

McCarthy missed Geelong's win over Essendon last round with groin soreness, but is a good chance to return against Richmond on Sunday.

The Cats recruited McCarthy from SANFL club Glenelg at pick No.66 in the 2011 NAB AFL Draft.