Andrew McGrath has told Essendon his future lies with them as St Kilda circles the former No.1 draft pick.
The Bombers are supremely confident of retaining McGrath, despite the player postponing talks on a new deal.
McGrath, 24, is being courted by the Saints, but the versatile midfielder has reassured the club he has no intention of leaving Tullamarine.
McGrath won’t be rushed on a new deal, however, and is determined to find form in the second half of the season before turning his attention to a contract negotiation.
He took his time signing his current contract, which wasn’t announced until October 2020.
McGrath remains in doubt for Friday night’s clash against Carlton after experiencing groin soreness during match simulation over the bye weekend.
In other contract news, Collingwood have opened negotiations on a new deal for Darcy Cameron.
Cameron has stepped up in the absence of injured No.1 Brodie Grundy since the latter went down in Round 6. Cameron has found some form in recent weeks and has previously expressed his love for the Pies.
Jack Lukosius and Izak Rankine are close to having new deals announced at Gold Coast, while Tim English has committed to the Western Bulldogs.
Melbourne remain certain Luke Jackson will sign a new contract to stay, despite serious interest from Fremantle and West Coast.