AFL: Hayden McLean signs four-year deal with Sydney Swans

The Sydney Swans have locked in one of their emerging stars for another four AFL seasons, with Hayden McLean committing to the club until 2027.

The key forward is enjoying a career-best campaign in 2023, playing 21 games as part of a Sydney side that is now looking ahead to life after Lance Franklin.

The Swans confirmed the news on Tuesday, with McLean saying he was “excited” to extend his stay in the NSW capital.

“It’s very exciting. I know the last few years have been very good and I’m looking forward to the next few, I’m very excited to put pen to paper,” he said.

McLean made his AFL debut in 2019 after joining the Swans as a Pre-Season Supplemental signing.

“I think I’m a bit better off for taking the harder way (to get to the AFL),” the Victorian said.

“Moving around and trying to fight for a spot made me appreciate having a spot at the moment and what it takes each week to compete, and I think that’s front of mind to compete every week.”

Having featured in Sydney’s run to the 2022 AFL Grand Final, where they lost to Geelong, McLean is hoping the Swans can make another deep run in September this year.

“Having a bit of a taste (of finals) last year, to get to that spot and have a crack was a great experience for us and a great learning curve,” he said.

“I think being there again this year, and with the young group that we have got and the talent that has developed throughout the year together, I can see a lot of success going forward.”

Sydney will head to the MCG to play Carlton in an elimination final on Friday, September 8.

AFL bookmakers have the Swans pegged as $2.62 outsiders for the clash, with the Blues paying $1.50 in their first finals appearance since 2013.

More sports news