Melbourne loom large as a potential new AFL home for Richmond young gun Dustin Martin, who has told the Tigers he wants to pursue rivals’ offers.
While Martin says his stance doesn’t mean he has walked out on Richmond, just that he’s taking time to consider his future, the Tigers seem resigned to losing him.
That could open the door for the Demons, whose new coach Paul Roos has stated he is willing to put the No.2 draft pick on the table for midfield talent.
Melbourne have already approached Martin’s management.
Richmond issued a statement on Monday, saying they were extremely disappointed that after months of negotiation and their belief they had been close to a new deal, Martin and his management have told them he is considering other options.
“Given the considerable effort we have put into Dustin’s development both on and off the field, and our efforts to retain him all season, we are extremely disappointed with this decision,” Richmond’s football manager Dan Richardson said.
The Tigers said they had helped the 22-year-old, who was selected with the club’s No.3 national draft pick in 2009, develop as a person and a player.
Richardson hinted that Martin’s unwillingness to re-sign was all about money.
“We understand the business of football, and Dustin’s right to pursue other opportunities,” he said.
“We have also stated previously that we are determined to adhere to our payment strategy for all of our players.”
The Tigers have reportedly offered Martin, who has played 86 games in his four seasons including all 23 this year, about $500,000 per season.
Martin used Twitter to issue his own statement, saying he hadn’t quit Richmond, but was considering his options.
“This is a very important decision for myself and my family and one that I won’t make lightly,” he said.
“I want to make it clear that I appreciate everyone’s patience in allowing me the time to make this decision.
“The claims that I have walked out on the Richmond Football Club are totally incorrect.”
Martin is not a free agent, meaning if he does leave, his club of choice has to satisfy the Tigers in a trade or he has to take his chances through the draft.
That puts Melbourne in a strong position, given they have the No.2 pick to play with.
While Melbourne haven’t committed to giving that up for Martin, Roos said when he was appointed earlier this month that it could be on the table.
“We need some immediate talent in the midfield,” he said.
Greater Western Sydney are also well-positioned to make a play, given they hold the top picks in the national and pre-season drafts.
Carlton, whose coach Mick Malthouse said on Saturday night lacked midfield depth, are another potential suitor.