Adelaide have secured the prized signature of high-flying forward Mitch McGovern on a new three-year AFL deal.
The 22-year-old Western Australian was due to come off contract at the end of the season and had been strongly pursued by both AFL clubs in his home state.
McGovern's brother Jeremy is a key player at West Coast, but Fremantle's lucrative multi-year offer was considered the major stumbling block in the Crows' bid to re-sign the exciting forward.
On the same day Adelaide star Rory Sloane was hospitalised to have his appendix out, news of McGovern's signing is a huge pre-finals boost for the Crows.
"I love the playing group I'm playing with, but also the staff and everyone involved," McGovern said.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"The culture is fantastic here. It's one of the best-run clubs that I can see and I'm glad to be a part of it.
"I'm pretty excited for the future ahead."
McGovern's signing leaves defender Jake Lever as the Crows' next priority, with the Victorian tall, who is out of contract at the end of the season, attracting keen interest from several clubs.
McGovern was recruited with the 43rd overall pick at the 2014 national draft and had to wait until round one of the 2016 season to make his AFL debut.
In 35 AFL games since, he has established himself as a dynamic, strong-marking forward, with his last-second mark and goal in a draw against Collingwood this season a highlight.
"We're thrilled that Mitch wants to be part of the environment we've created at the club," list manager Justin Reid said.
