Melbourne star Christian Petracca. Picture: AFL Photos

MELBOURNE forward Christian Petracca has signed a two-year contract extension three days after launching 2020 with a thrilling pre-season performance.

Petracca, who was due to come out of contract at the end of this season, has extended his time with the Demons until the end of 2022.

The 24-year-old starred for Melbourne in its Marsh Community Series win against Adelaide, winning 38 possessions and kicking three goals.

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A permanent move into the midfield appears imminent for the No.2 draft pick of 2014 who is trimmer as he enters his sixth season. 

"I sat down with Goody (Simon Goodwin), Tim Lamb (list manager) and my manager, and I’ve always wanted to be at the club so to sign on for another two years is an amazing feeling," Petracca told the club's website.

"I’ve got so many mates here – they’re my closest mates.

PRE-SEASON FIXTURE Check out your team's Marsh Community Series games

"I see them every day and I probably annoy the hell out of them but I’m just so grateful to be a part of such a great group.

"I can call so many guys my brothers and mates for life."

Petracca won 27 of his 38 possessions in contests against the Crows on Saturday and recorded eight clearances and nine inside 50s in a dominant performance.

After placing fifth in the club’s best and fairest award last year, he looks primed for a season of significant improvement.

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"I’m just mentally really excited to attack the year," he said.

"I think the club has changed a lot since last year in terms of putting our strengths on show and allowing us boys to go out and play.

"Just the whole culture in the last 18 months has developed heaps as well, so I’m just excited to start the year and be on for another two years."