Star Western Bulldogs midfielder Marcus Bontempelli has bypassed speculation about his future by signing a contract extension with the Club.

Bontempelli was due to come out of contract at the end of the 2019 season, but moved early to extend his contract by a further two years, keeping him at VU Whitten Oval until at least the end of the 2021 season.

The Dogs’ vice-captain, who turns 23 this Saturday, has played 104 games since being drafted to the Club at the end of 2013.

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“I’ve made no secret about the love I have for the Club, and how I want to play a key role in the future success of this playing group,” Bontempelli said.

“I had no hesitation in getting it finalised now, with a year still to go on my contract, so I can concentrate all my energy on playing footy and helping the team.

“We have a really talented group of young players, and I’m excited about what they are capable of producing with a bit more experience under their belts.

“We have created a great environment and we have the right program and people in place to take this group to the next level.”

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Bontempelli is already a dual Charles Sutton medallist, was selected in the All Australian team of 2016 and played a key role in the Dogs' premiership team that year.

“There’s no doubting the importance of Marcus to our playing group, and we’re obviously thrilled to have extended his contract,” said Bulldogs’ General Manager of List and Recruiting, Sam Power.

“Marcus has a great presence on and off the field, he leads by example, he is mature beyond his years and he has so much footy ahead of him.

“Finalising the contract extension so early effectively means we’ve secured Marcus for three more years. We’re pleased with how the negotiations were handled by the Club and his management team.

“We look forward to seeing Marcus in the red, white and blue for a very long time to come.”