JACK Watts has signed a new three-year deal with Melbourne and will remain with the club until at least the end of the 2016 season.

Watts’ signing is a significant one for the Demons and comes on the back of the prized signature of coach Paul Roos.

It’s understood several AFL clubs sounded out Watts, given he was out of contract. But at his first media conference as Melbourne coach, Roos said he was eager for Watts and midfielder/forward Colin Sylvia to remain at the Demons.

Watts said the acquisition of Roos had been significant in decision, but he was thrilled to remain a Demon.

“It was pretty big. To have someone of his (Roos) stature and even just to be able to talk to him for five minutes and see his vision of where we’re going and what kind of person he is – that made the decision a lot easier,” he told melbournefc.com.au.

“It’s a big relief and it brings a lot of happiness. 

“I’m stoked to get it done and I can look forward to next year now.”

Still only 22 years old, Watts has faced intense scrutiny throughout his career, given his status entering the AFL.

But he has shown plenty to like about his game and still has genuine development.

The fact that he has the potential to play for up to a decade still makes him a critical component of Melbourne’s long term plans.

The 2008 No.1 NAB AFL Draft selection has played 73 matches for the Demons – including 42 consecutively from his fourth match until his 45^th – since he made his debut in round 11, 2009 against Collingwood.

Although Watts was drafted as a key forward, he has also impressed down back and in the midfield.

In 2013, Watts kicked a career best 22 goals, after spending the majority of the second half of the season in attack.

He kicked two bags of four this year, on both occasions against the Western Bulldogs, including the final round of the season.