Western Bulldogs midfielder Patrick Lipinski has become a subject of interest at rival clubs.
Lipinski has been out of the Dogs side since returning from a quad complaint in Round 11, with list managers sniffing around his potential availability during his absence.
The 22-year-old gathered 36 disposals and booted three goals against Geelong in the VFL on Friday night in a performance that enhanced the interest.
Lipinski is out of contract at the end of the season.
He struggled to earn a recall while the VFL season was put on hold and the Bulldogs still have Josh Dunkley and Adam Treloar to return from injury.
The Dogs have enormous depth in the midfield and half-forward role. Toby McLean’s first game after recovering from an ACL injury took place in the AFL against the Cats.
Lipinski, who was pick 28 in the 2016 national draft, is a lifelong Bulldogs supporter.
There is no suggestion the Dogs would look to trade him, but rival clubs will seek to tempt him with the promise of regular opportunity at AFL level.