In a significant move for the West Coast Eagles, prized recruit Harley Reid has committed to the club with a lucrative new contract, reportedly worth around $2 million per season. This deal extends Reid’s stay in Perth until at least the end of 2028, as he turns down the opportunity to return to his home state of Victoria.
Reid, who was already under contract through 2026, has signed a two-year extension, reinforcing his dedication to the Eagles. The announcement comes amid speculation about his future, with several Victorian clubs reportedly interested in the No. 1 draft pick.
Harley Reid’s Commitment to West Coast
The 2023 No. 1 draft pick expressed his enthusiasm for remaining with the Eagles, highlighting the support he has received from fans and the club’s potential for growth. “I’m incredibly excited to sign on with this great club,” Reid stated. “Since the day I arrived in Perth, the West Coast Eagles members and fans have been so supportive of me and our team, and the future with our young squad is super exciting.”
Reid’s decision is a significant boost for the Eagles, who finished the 2025 season with a record 22 losses, marking them as the first team to do so. Despite the challenging season, Reid’s performance was a bright spot, as he led the midfield in Elliot Yeo’s absence, averaging 18.8 disposals and four clearances per game.
Impact of Reid’s New Deal
According to Eagles list manager Matt Clarke, Reid’s extension is pivotal for the club’s future. “Harley is a very important part of our future and has always displayed a great connection to our football club throughout the process,” Clarke commented. “He embodies everything we want in a West Coast Eagle – skill, determination, and a fierce competitive spirit.”
Reid’s commitment comes shortly after team captain Oscar Allen’s departure, which is expected to result in the Eagles receiving the second draft pick as compensation. The move represents a strategic effort by the club to stabilize and rebuild after a difficult season.
Market Dynamics and Competition
The new contract places Reid among the AFL’s elite earners, alongside St Kilda’s Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera. The deal also concludes a period of intense speculation, with clubs like Hawthorn, Geelong, and Essendon reportedly vying for Reid’s signature. Reports suggested that St Kilda was prepared to offer a 12-year, $25 million contract to lure him away from Perth.
7NEWS Perth reporter Ryan Daniels noted last week that the anticipated long-term deal was unlikely to materialize. “The old two-year plus a nine-year extension to get to $24 million, I don’t think that’s going to happen now. That is going to be reworked, it’s going to be a much shorter deal,” Daniels explained.
Future Prospects for the Eagles
With Reid’s new contract secured, the focus now shifts to the upcoming seasons and the potential for the Eagles to climb back up the AFL ladder. Reid’s return from a season-ending syndesmosis injury will be crucial as the team looks to improve its performance.
The Eagles’ management and fans are hopeful that Reid’s presence will inspire the team and lead to a successful rebuild. “The future with Harley and his family on board with the West Coast Eagles is something that we feel will be very special,” Clarke emphasized.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Reid and the West Coast Eagles as they aim to capitalize on their young talent and return to competitive form in the AFL.
