The drama surrounding Leek Aleer has ended after the young key defender extended with GWS for two years.
Aleer was off contract and all but confirmed for a switch to St Kilda before the Saints pulled out of the move.
In September, the Giants confirmed Aleer had requested a trade and it was all systems go until the shock backflip.
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At the time, Aleer’s manager Dylan Smith told 9news Melbourne that the decision came as an “absolute shock”.
“They’ve been wining and dining him for two years. They loved where he was at and finally turned his head,” he said.
Leek Aleer. Getty
Smith explained the Saints backflipped because they didn’t have the picks to trade for him.
“Leek is not happy and to be honest, livid with the situation,” he continued.
“Clubs have rung me and said ‘it’s a disgrace, what have they done?’ Nobody from the Saints has spoken to him.”
After the shock call, the Giants confirmed Aleer was welcome to extend and he’s done just that.
GWS executive general manager of football Jason McCartney said he was thrilled to have Aleer commit.
“He’s a player we’ve invested in and one we believe has a bright future in the game,” he said.
“As a developing key defender, Leek brings elite athleticism, aerial ability, and a desire to improve each time he takes to the field.
“While in recent weeks there’s been discussion around where his future lies, we have always been steadfast in the fact that Leek is a highly valued player and person at the Giants and we’re thrilled to have him on board through to 2027 and we believe he’ll continue to grow into a key part of our backline for years to come.”