McDonald extends AFL deal with Demons

Key forward Tom McDonald has inked a new four- year deal that will see him stay at the Demons until the end of the 2022 AFL season.

The 132-gamer has arguably been in career-best form since returning from a foot injury in round six, becoming one of Melbourne's most valuable players.

The 25-year-old has kicked 19 goals in his past six matches, including 15 majors in his previous four games.

General manager of football operations Josh Mahoney said McDonald, in his eighth year with Melbourne, was an important part of the club's future.

"Tom was a free agent this year and his signing is another positive sign for the environment that is being created at the club," Mahoney said.

"Tom has been providing us a great target and working well with our other forward options."

McDonald finished third in the club's best and fairest in 2012 and 2015.