TENACIOUS Melbourne midfielder Aaron vandenBerg has signed a new deal, keeping him in the red and blue until at least the end of 2021.

The 26-year-old, who considered a move to New South Wales to be closer to family, today informed the club of his decision to continue as a Demon.

“We are very happy that Aaron has decided to remain a Melbourne player and agreed to a new deal,” General Manager of football operations Josh Mahoney told Melbourne Media.

“The last two years have been very challenging personally and we understand that this was a tough decision for Aaron, given his family situation and the attraction of moving to Sydney.

“It is a positive reflection of our club and the environment that has been created for the players, and the connection they have together.”

Making his way back from a heel/ankle injury that sidelined him for 680 days, vandenBerg played seven AFL matches in 2018.

His work rate ensured a smooth transition back into the senior side, becoming an integral part of Melbourne’s midfield leading up to, and throughout, its finals campaign.

“Returning from an extended time on the sidelines, Aaron showed his ability at AFL level at the end of the year and finals,” Mahoney said.

“We look forward to watching Aaron have a good run with injuries and supporting him in the future.”

Making his debut in round 1, 2015 against Gold Coast at the MCG, vandenBerg now has a total of 35 AFL games to his name.

Originally from Western Australia, before moving to New South Wales and then Canberra, he was drafted at No.2 in the 2015 Rookie Draft.