By Peter Ryan
St Kilda star Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera is set to become the AFL’s first $2 million man after re-signing with the Saints for two more years in a massive coup for the club.
The 22-year-old had fielded huge offers from Port Adelaide and Adelaide to return to South Australia.
St Kilda’s Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera (right) celebrates the win over Essendon.Credit: Getty Images
Wanganeen-Milera’s decision caused celebrations among St Kilda fans who have watched him become one of the best players in the competition in his contract year, but feared they would lose him to more lucrative offers from clubs in his home state.
His decision to stay gives the Saints’ rebuild fresh impetus with competition sources confirming he had been locked in on a deal worth at least $4 million over two years, which will make him the highest-paid player in the AFL.
“From the moment I arrived at St Kilda, the staff and my teammates have supported me in every way, not just to be a better footballer, but a better person,” said Wanganeen-Milera, who conjured the Saints’ record comeback win against the Demons by winning the game almost off his own boot in round 20.
He is also likely to be a contender for the Brownlow Medal.
“I know how special it is to pull on the red, white and black. Every time I run out, I’m representing my family, my culture and this club. That means everything to me.
“I’ve still got so much I want to improve in my game, and I know this is the right place for me to keep growing. I’ve got great people around me who push me to be better every day.
“I want to help create something long-lasting here. We’ve got a tight group and a clear direction, and I’m proud to be part of building that future.”
Pick No.11 in the 2021 national draft, Wanganeen-Milera has had an extraordinary season and is now rated as one of the best players in the competition. He is certain to win the Saints’ best and fairest.
“Nasiah’s commitment to the club is a strong vote of confidence in not only the culture we’ve built, but in the future we’re creating both on and off the field,” Saints football manager David Misson said.
“Nas is a well-loved and deeply connected member of our team. His decision to stay is brilliant news for the entire footy club, from the playing group to our loyal supporters.
“He’s an incredibly exciting and talented footballer, and we’re thrilled to watch him continue to develop as an integral part of our club.”
Wanganeen-Milera’s decision to wait before he re-signed has reaped enormous dividends as he was in a strong negotiating position as the Saints were offering big money to attract players from other clubs.
They are set to secure Carlton’s restricted free agent Tom De Koning for a seven-year deal expected to be at least $1.7 million per year and Giants’ defender Leek Aleer on close to $700,000 a year.
They are yet to re-sign midfielder Marcus Windhager who has attracted interest from Melbourne, North Melbourne and Essendon while his negotiations have dragged on.
Clubs TPP is set at $18.15million per season in 2026, but St Kilda have five per cent more to spend as they have underspent in previous seasons.
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