Collingwood and out-of-contract forward Brody Mihocek are yet to agree to terms on a new deal.
The Herald Sun is reporting that the Magpies have made a “below-par contract offer” to Mihocek as they look to lock away out-of-contract stars Jordan De Goey and Darcy Moore.
It comes amid a tight salary cap that could result in players like Mihocek being squeezed out.
His manager Anthony McConville told the Herald Sun: “It has been slow going so we are still working with Collingwood and it might take a little time.
“Hopefully we will be able to get there and if not we will see.”
The 27-year-old has been a revelation after plying his trade in the VFL for Werribee and Port Melbourne.
Into his third season at Collingwood, Mihocek has kicked 82 goals in 54 matches, including 17 from 14 games this season.
Garry Lyon is a big fan of Mihocek and encouraged his former club Melbourne to make a "polite enquiry" to his management.
“I’m on the record, I love Brody Mihocek, I love the way he plays," Lyon told SEN Breakfast.
“I love that he’s honest and consistent, works hard and pushes up and pushes back, hits the scoreboard.
“He (Sam Weideman) needs a bit of support through there, so I would ask the question about Brody Mihocek, my very word I would.
“I would make a little polite enquiry to his manager."