Western Bulldogs defender Buku Khamis has turned his back on rival interest to sign a long-term extension.

Khamis, 26, explored his trade options at the end of last season, gaining interest from Carlton.

But, after a strong year playing every single game for the Bulldogs, the athletic key-back penned a five-year extension.

Khamis said a premiership in red, white and blue was a key driver in him signing on.

“Super happy to be staying in red, white and blue,” Khamis said.

“The factors for me staying were that I wanted to play over 100 games, get the name on the locker. If the name is in gold, that means we have won a premiership, that’s the preference.

“We have a great bunch of boys and I love the staff, it is a place I can come to work every day and be happy, be myself.

“I am very grateful to be in the position I am now. To still be here eight years later is special, but I still feel like I have so much more room to grow.

“I want to thank our fanbase, the members, supporters, for the love that you show our team and myself.

“Playing for the red, white and blue is something I will cherish forever and don’t take it for granted.”

The deal ties Khamis to the Kennel until the end of 2031.

“As a Club, we’re just so pleased that Buku has decided to remain at our Club,” Western Bulldogs list manager Sam Power said.

“He’s such a popular member of our football club and has established himself as a key pillar of our backline, showing a great ability to intercept the ball and support his teammates in the air.

“Our commitment to Buku reflects how much we value him – as a player and as a person – with his growing consistency and durability at AFL level an exciting prospect for our Club moving forward.

“His passion for our Community Foundation and dedication of time to helping people across our community is a mark of the human being he is.

“We still believe Buku has great growth in his game moving forward and we’re excited to see him develop into the future.”

The extension is good news for the Bulldogs after the recent retirements of Tom Liberatore and Adam Treloar.

Originally published as AFL 2026: Western Bulldog Buku Khamis has committed to the club long term