Western Bulldogs manager Luke Beveridge is desperate for Josh Dunkley to stay with club AFL, but admits the star’s midfielder could be among a plethora of players leaving.
The Bulldogs’ season ended abruptly on Saturday night when they took a 41-point lead in a 13-point final elimination loss – 11.7 (73) to 8.12 (60) – against Fremantle at Optus Stadium.
Dunkley’s offer to join Essendon in late 2020 failed and has now been linked to Port Adelaide.
The 25-year-old has already submitted a new offer from the Bulldogs, but has yet to let the club know his intentions.
Jason Johannisen, medalist to Norm Smith, who is an unlimited free agent, is attracting interest from the Gold Coast.
Bulldogs defender Zaine Cordy is another player evaluating his future.
“There are some unknowns,” said a frank Beveridge after the defeat to Fremantle.
“We’re desperate, we hope Josh stays, but I can’t tell you if he is or if he isn’t.
“There are a couple of guys on that boat – JJ, Zane, there might be one or two others.
“The ability to relocate clubs – whether it’s free agency or contract – is quite significant. We all have to manage our situation within the salary cap. “
The Bulldogs have been strongly linked to Fremantle striker Rory Lobb.
Lobb has scored his best 36 career goals this season as he rotated between his attacking line and reserve roles.
The 29-year-old would give the Bulldogs a vital offensive experience alongside Aaron Naughton, Sam Darcy and Jamarra Ugle-Hagan.
Veteran striker Josh Bruce was eliminated for the final elimination after scoring just one goal in five games on his return from injury at ACL.
The 30-year-old has a contract until the end of 2023, with next season looming as a defining year for him.