Robbie D’Orazio, who represents Brodie Grundy, has provided an update on the Collingwood ruckman's contract situation.
It is understood that Grundy’s management are seeking a seven-year deal for the star big man who produced a stellar 2019 campaign for the Magpies.
Grundy, 25, is contracted until the end of 2020 meaning there is time to sort a new deal and the Connors Sports Management camp are confident of getting the terms they feel the two-time All-Australian and reigning Copeland Trophy winner is deserving of.
“I’m confident that we’ll get what we want. I think it’s not unreasonable or unfair to demand the deal that we’re after for Brodie,” D’Orazio told reporters at a TAB press conference.
“He fits within the realms of Tom Lynch, who we traded last year, and Dylan Shiel and Stephen Coniglio. He’s a top-10 player in the competition.
“He’s not just a ruckman, he’s a midfielder who is an ultimate pro. I’m sure that in the end we will get what we need.”
He added: “I think seven years could even be a bit short.”
D’Orazio says negotiations with Collingwood have been put on the back burner for now but insists there is no rush.
“Not at the moment. We’ve parked it. (Pies list manager) Ned Guy has got other things to worry about this year,” he added.
“He’s contracted next year and he’ll be at Collingwood next year so we’ve got plenty of time.”
Regarding the prospect of Grundy entering free agency at the end of next season, as well as interest from rival clubs, D’Orazio said further: “He’s a free agent next year so he deserves the right.
“I guess all players, if they’ve played eight years at a club, the free agency rule that’s come in has given them the right to exercise free agency.
“So we’ll look at that in the coming weeks.
“We’ve had clubs enquire already, and you expect them to. They wouldn’t be doing their job if they weren’t making enquiries.
“We’re comfortable sitting down with the Pies at some stage to try and get something done there and if not, then we’ll look at other options.
“(But) we’re not in a hurry at all.”
Listen to D'Orazio on Grundy below: