EMERGING Melbourne star Christian Petracca has re-signed with Melbourne for a further two years.

The exciting midfielder will be a key part of the Demons' future after committing to the club until at least the end of 2020. AFL.com.au has confirmed the extension.

The 22-year-old enjoyed a breakout year in 2017, playing every game for the Demons and averaging 18 disposals and kicking 26 goals.

His ability to change games in the midfield and closer to goal makes him a vital player for the club as it aims to break a 12-year finals drought in 2018.

"I was always going to sign here, as I love the club and I'm pretty passionate about what we're striving for and where we want to get to," Petracca told melbournefc.com.au.

"There wasn't any pressure at all – I was out of contract this year and I wanted a bit of security."

Pledging his loyalty to Melbourne, Petracca expressed how important it was for him to remain a one-club player.

"It means everything. The club put faith in me as an 18-year-old kid and drafted me, and all I want to do is repay that faith," he said.

"That's by winning premierships and staying at the club for as long as I can.

"The way the club's heading at the moment, I couldn't picture myself anywhere else. I love the environment, my teammates and the coaching staff, and I'm just thrilled to be here."

The Demons selected Petracca with the No.2 pick at the 2014 NAB AFL Draft, and he looked set to make an immediate impact at AFL level before injuring his knee and requiring a reconstruction after an incident in his first pre-season.

After a year on the sidelines, he made his debut in round six, 2016 and showed some brilliant patches before last year becoming a more consistent prospect for the Dees.

Petracca finished seventh in the club's best and fairest and appears set for more midfield time this season.