Greg Denham believes Richmond are losing a grip on in-demand superstar Dustin Martin, as North Melbourne remerge as a prime contender to secure his services.
Denham reported in The Australian today that the Tigers are “losing the confidence that they had the upper hand in recontracting the free agent [Martin].” With Josh Kelly showing more interest to remain a GWS Giant, Denham is reporting North’s offer is gaining urgency, as "North Melbourne officials, possibly, including coach Brad Scott, are preparing as early as this weekend, to fly to New Zealand to speak to Martin’s father Shane."
Speaking on SEN’s Hungry For Sport, Denham reiterated his report.
“There was a big dramatic change from Richmond swinging back to North in the last week,” he said.
“Something really significant has happened over the last week or two. I think Richmond was feeling quite confident that they had the deal done. All of a sudden, off the table, I’m not sure whether North got wind of what is now coming through GWS where Josh Kelly, after what Leon Cameron said, must be giving an indication to the Giants that he will stay for the next two years and not leave.
“To be honest, North are so desperate, they were after both players, but they need a least one to rejuvenate and they’re obviously going to put all their eggs in the Martin basket. It seems to be whatever it takes.
“At the start of the year, we had Martin around a four-year deal at about $850,000 to stay at Richmond. The four-years has now gone to six or seven, the 850 has gone to $1.2-1.5 million, which will make Dusty the highest paid player in the AFL.
“You can just see North’s bid is absolutely massive and they’re leaving no stone unturned. Whether they go to New Zealand, the money, the length of contract, they’re leaving nothing to chance.”
Tigers’ legend Kevin Bartlett believes his former club needs to take advantage of Martin’s talent while they have it, stating “Richmond fans will be devastated if Martin packs his bags, the only thing that could sooth the heartache would be if he leaves as a premiership player.”