Gold Coast have earmarked Keano Kini as their long-term fullback by signing the 21-year-old to a new four-year contract.

Kini had already been contracted until the end of 2026 but will now remain with the Titans until the end of the 2030 season.

The deal is a showing of faith in Kini amid a serious neck injury that has sidelined him indefinitely.

Kini is now the Titans' equal-longest contracted player alongside former Queensland representative AJ Brimson.

Only Manly's Haumole Olakau'atu and Newcastle recruit Dylan hold longer guaranteed deals across the NRL, though others have player options that also reach into the next decade.

Kini had a breakout 2024 season, winning the Paul Broughton Medal as the Titans' player of the year and making his international debut for New Zealand.

Auckland-born Kini was nominated for the International Rugby League's Golden Boot Award for his performances in the Pacific Championships and has played 24 NRL games so far.

"Keano is still only in the early stages of his NRL career, but he's already showed that he's capable of having a huge impact on games," said Titans coach Des Hasler.

"Keano's professionalism and attitude has made him both a valued and well-liked member of the club both on and off field.

"Family is very important to Keano and he and his partner have just welcomed their first child and it's great that they'll be able to continue to raise their family here on the Coast."