Scott Gumbleton will remain at Essendon after signing a one-year contract with the Bombers.

The news ends speculation that the key forward would pursue a deal elsewhere.

Freo general manager of football Chris Bond had indicated previously that the club was interested in the former Peel Thunder player.

The injury-prone 24-year-old played just 28 games in six seasons with Essendon after being the No.2 pick in the 2006 NAB AFL Draft.