AS REPORTED exclusively on AFL.com.au on Wednesday, Essendon youngster Martin Gleeson has signed a contract extension with the club.

Essendon confirmed on Wednesday that Gleeson had penned a new two-year deal that will see him tied to the club until at least the end of the 2016 season.

"I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity the club has given me; my teammates and coaches have provided me with plenty of encouragement and support and I’m excited to have re-signed," Gleeson told the club website.

"I’ll continue to work closely with the development coaches on a number of key areas of my game, and hopefully that will allow me to put my hand up to play more senior football next season.

"As tough as it was to lose our final [against North Melbourne last Saturday], it's a motivator heading into next season.  

"We know where we have to get to and the hard work that’s required over the summer if we want to be a successful team."

Gleeson played nine games in his second season on Essendon's list after being selected with pick 53 in the 2012 NAB AFL Draft, including seven of the first eight games.

He was used mainly across half-back and on the wing and looked comfortable immediately with his dash, nous and skill.

His best game came against St Kilda in round five when he gathered 23 disposals, having managed 21 touches and kicked a goal the previous week in the Bombers' loss to Fremantle.

The nephew of former Carlton premiership player Adrian Gleeson, he missed almost three months with soft-tissue leg injuries in the second half of the season before returning for Essendon's final two matches.

He struggled in the elimination final loss to North Melbourne and was substituted out of the game, but the club has been rapt with his progress and development.

Having missed most of last pre-season after a shoulder reconstruction, Gleeson is likely to use this summer to build up his light frame.

Midfielder Ben Howlett and veteran defender Dustin Fletcher lead the group of senior-listed Bombers yet to sign on for next season, although a decision from Fletcher is expected soon.

Leroy Jetta has signalled his intentions to leave the club, and AFL.com.au reported on Tuesday that versatile Bomber Kyle Hardingham is likely to seek a trade for more senior opportunities elsewhere.