BRISBANE has moved to lock down one of its talented youngsters, with Alex Witherden set to sign a new two-year deal.

The half-back was not due to come out of contract until the end of 2020, having recommitted at the start of last year.

However, the club is understood to have made him a priority re-signing and is looking to extend his contract through to the end of 2022.

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Witherden is one of the Lions' brightest youngsters, having become a key part of the back half since breaking into the senior side midway through his debut 2017 season.

Since his first game in round 14 that season, which was delayed after a broken leg in his draft year, the Geelong Falcons product has played 41 out of a possible 43 games.

The 20-year-old is one of the club's best users out of the backline and often takes the club's kick-outs, where his precise foot skills and vision sets up the Lions' rebound.

The retention issues Brisbane faced in the past seem long gone, with key younger players Jarrod Berry (signed until the end of 2024), Hugh McCluggage (2021), Cam Rayner (2021) and Harris Andrews (2021) all committed long-term.

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The Lions, who are perched in fifth position on the ladder after a brilliant start to the season under coach Chris Fagan, are aiming for their first finals appearance since 2009.

Their 19-point win over Hawthorn on Saturday night was their fourth win from their past six games and they now face an under-siege Carlton at Marvel Stadium this week before a round 13 bye.