Sydney forward Logan McDonald has turned down offers from his home state and reigning premiers Collingwood to sign a four-year contract with the Swans.

McDonald had been widely speculated to return to Western Australia, with Fremantle armed with three first-round picks for next year’s draft. However, the new four-year deal at Sydney, confirmed by the club on Friday, will take him through to free agency.

The key forward was considered a top candidate to enhance Fremantle’s offensive lineup, especially before the rise of Josh Treacy and Jye Amiss. The Dockers were long expected to pursue the Perth Football Club product aggressively.

Additionally, Collingwood emerged as a contender this season, with The Herald Sun reporting that the Magpies hoped to exploit an impending rule change allowing clubs to trade draft picks two seasons in advance.

McDonald was pivotal in Fremantle’s dramatic victory over the Swans at the SCG on Saturday, missing a crucial kick after the siren that would have put his team ahead for the first time in the game.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to stay here in the red and white; this place is like my second home,” McDonald said. “I’ve been here for four years now and am excited to be here for another four. My teammates are my best mates, and the people I live with and see every day are my second family. The exciting position the list is in at the moment — I just want to compete to win games — and hopefully win some premierships.”

This news follows fellow West Aussie Jedd Busslinger’s commitment to a two-year deal with the Western Bulldogs. The second-year key defender has yet to make his debut under coach Luke Beveridge.