West Coast’s delay in structuring a contract extension for Tom Barrass is once again threatening to see the key defender leave the club.
Barrass, 28, has three years to run on an existing deal having turned his back on Sydney’s riches in last year’s trade period.
But rival clubs who have reached out in recent weeks have been told that Barrass will absolutely consider a move.
The defender’s decision to reject the Swans’ strong interest was made due to a combination of loyalty and family reasons that saw him taking less money to stay than he would have got to leave.
It’s also understood there were undertakings at the Eagles that included Barrass being looked after in the aftermath, given salary cap increases, the premium value now put on key backs of his calibre and veteran teammates recently signing new deals.
But a change in administration at the club has seen things stall, prompting rival clubs to circle.
The Barrass camp is chasing a two-year contract extension, making it a five-year commitment through to 2029.
Ideally, he would sign that extension at West Coast, but it remains unclear if the Eagles are prepared to make that commitment.
That uncertainty has prompted the Western Bulldogs and Collingwood, and others, to register their interest in bringing Barrass across the country.
The Dogs are desperately searching for a key defender given Alex Keath is 32 and out of contract at seasons end and Liam Jones will be 34 before next season.
The Bulldogs don’t have a first round pick as things stand, but will have access to future picks and would be hopeful of getting a first round selection back for Bailey Smith.
Out-of-favour Dogs defender Caleb Daniel could also be seeking a fresh start at a new club.