Trade talk: The out-of-contract Demon still "weighing up" options

Melbourne's Tom Sparrow remains a hot target in the free agency market, and according to teammate Jake Lever, the 26-year-old is yet to settle on a decision.

The South Australian has enjoyed a superb season after shifting into the midfield full time, averaging a career-high 23 disposals, six tackles and six clearances per game.

And after a perfect 10 coaches votes against North Melbourne this weekend, Sparrow’s stocks could not be higher.

With significant interest from his home state, the soon-to-be restricted free agent is yet to commit his future to the Dees, and according to Lever, the midfielder remains unsure of his playing future.

“He has played different roles over the last couple of years,” Lever told SEN Breakfast.

“Obviously with Christian Petracca, Clayton Oliver and Jack Viney all not playing this year – obviously two at other clubs and Viney being injured – he has been someone that has sat in the wings for a while.

“Right now, he is playing some fantastic footy. He is just such a great teammate. He chases, he tackles, he wins contested ball and he is always down in the D50 helping us lads.

“He is someone I love playing with every week.

“For us, I think Tommy understands how much we love him.

“But he has been in a position where he’s probably only had one or two-year contracts, and right now, playing his career-best footy, he is weighing up his decision.

“I think he understands how important he is to this football club. Now that he has finally got his opportunity, he has proved to the competition and to Melbourne what he is worth.

“I’m sure that will get done in time, definitely.”

Sparrow and the Dees take on Geelong this Friday night in a bid to further solidify their top six spot.