The future of Esava Ratugolea has again bubbled to the surface, with multiple clubs circling the once-again out-of-favour defender.
Ratugolea, who was “managed” last week, is almost certain to play VFL this weekend as Geelong struggle to accommodate him in a stacked backline.
The 24-year-old managed only four appearances in 2022, but had been reinvented as a key intercepting defender, playing 13 games this year.
Sources throughout this year have stated that if Ratugolea kept playing then it would be hard for him to leave.
However, he has since been subbed off in Round 16 against Sydney, was rested in Round 18 and is set to line-up in the reserves this Saturday.
Geelong nine months ago blocked Ratugolea’s move to Port Adelaide, holding him to the final year of his contract because they saw something in him as a defender, but perhaps also because they were wary of improving a flag threat.
The Cats privately believe the Power have returned with vengeance and are dangling a huge seven-year contract in front of Ratugolea – something Port strenuously deny.
It must be said, however, that the Power do maintain an interest and have been in contact with Ratugolea’s management.
Hawthorn is said to be another very interested party and are said to be eager to bring Ratugolea in to ease the burden on skipper James Sicily.
Ratugolea earlier this year said he never wanted to leave GMHBA Stadium.
“I love this club, I never wanted to go but I would have hated myself if I didn’t explore and try and get a good opportunity for myself, but I am happy here,” he said in April.
Scott has also spoken repeatedly of his desire for Ratugolea to stay.
“As to how hard we fight for him – about as hard as last year. He’s not going anywhere,” Scott said in June.
“If I were Esava, I would take it as a compliment that other teams are interested and as a coach I certainly do. We’ve got players that other teams want.”
But building interest and rumours of significant offers will make it very difficult for Ratugolea to stay – the temptation heightened given the greater opportunity that awaits as Port and Hawthorn.
While Ratugolea is out of contract, he is not yet eligible for free agency, meaning a deal would have to be struck with Geelong.
The Cats last year refused to accept pick 33 from Port Adelaide.