Walsh knocks back free agency to sign biggest deal in Carlton history

Carlton’s Sam Walsh has turned his back on free agency to re-sign with the Blues.

Walsh’s new deal takes him through until 2034, with the eight-year contract the biggest in club history.

According to AFL.com.au’s Cal Twomey, the deal is estimated to be worth more than $10 million across the eight years.

Victorian rivals Geelong, St Kilda, Adelaide and Hawthorn were all reportedly keen on Walsh’s services.

Despite that interest, Walsh never considered leaving the Blues.

“I love this Club. I am a Carlton person and I couldn’t be happier to continue my career here,” Walsh said.   

“This was obviously a big decision for me, but it was made so much easier because I know we are heading in the right direction. I make no secret of the fact that I want to win, and I want to win with the Carlton monogram on my chest.  

“I truly believe that the key people we have here, and where our group is at right now, we are seeing a significant shift as we head into this next period of our football club, one that I know is going to be really exciting to be part of.   

“When I arrived, our Club was last on the ladder. Footy isn’t a linear experience, everyone knows that, but I am all in on the next eight years and doing everything I can to help us reach the top and stay there - the day we do will mean everything to me.

“The Carlton family is like no other: the roar, the passion is unbelievable. To continue to share that with you all, I can’t wait - it is going to be special to do that together.”  

Walsh is now the longest-signed player in the competition alongside Melbourne’s Kysaiah Pickett and Fremantle’s Caleb Serong.