FREMANTLE has secured a vital piece of its future, with in-demand midfielder Lachie Neale inking a three-year deal.

After much speculation on his future and a potential move interstate, Neale has opted to stay put at the Dockers until at least the end of 2019.

It is understood the contract was finalised on Friday afternoon, ahead of Fremantle’s clash with Collingwood at the MCG.

Several rival clubs were interested in securing 23-year-old’s signature, but discussions with his management — Stride Sports Management — only went ahead with the Dockers.

A big reason behind Neale’s decision was the talent coming through the ranks, providing a good picture of the future under coach Ross Lyon.

Emerging midfielders Lachie Weller and Connor Blakely have both earned Rising Star nominations this season, while first-year duo Darcy Tucker and Sam Collins have impressed since getting a taste of senior football.

The South Australian has played 84 games in five seasons at the Dockers since being drafted with pick No. 58 in the 2011 AFL national draft.

Camera Icon Lachie Neale has signed a new three-year deal at Fremantle. Credit: News Corp Australia, Daniel Wilkins

He is the hot favourite to take out Fremantle’s best and fairest — the Doig Medal — this season, showcasing his credentials as a future leader in the absence of Brownlow medallist Nat Fyfe, defender Michael Johnson and ruckman Aaron Sandilands.

After Round 13, Neale led the AFL in disposals with 432 at an average of just over 33.

Michael Barlow, Chris Mayne, Zac Clarke, Clancee Pearce, Tendai Mzungu, Matt de Boer and Alex Silvagni are still yet to re-sign with the club for 2017 and beyond, while former skipper and games record-holder Matthew Pavlich is tipped to retire at the season’s end.