Young Brisbane Lions duo Deven Robertson and Tom Berry are tipped to be in the sights of rival clubs this season, with limited opportunities at AFL level and a tight salary cap potentially pushing the pair out of Queensland.
Combined, Robertson and Berry have tallied just the eight games for this season and an overall total of 42 games since arriving at the Lions through the 2019 and 2018 National Drafts respectively.
Robertson, who is contracted for next season, has shown promising glimpses across his 22 senior appearances, but has found minutes in Chris Fagan's midfield hard to come by.
Berry, the younger brother of Brisbane onballer Jarrod, has pressed his case for selection across the season in showing an ability to play multiple roles when required.
But with a tight purse reportedly keeping the Lions to little wiggle room this year, both Berry and Roberston could be susceptible to the interest of external advances from keen clubs.
According to AFL.com.au's Cal Twomey, Robertson is gaining attention from rival clubs ahead of the off-season, while Berry, who is unsigned for 2023, is also being seen as a potential target.
“Because of that level of quality that they have brought in, there is going to be a squeeze and we know they generally keep their best players on the park, so it’s a tough team to break into,” Twomey told SEN.
“Deven Robertson has played five games this year and is in his third season, he’s contracted for next year, but that hasn’t stopped clubs inquiring about him to see where things are at and if he’s keen to have a look around.
“Small forward Tom Berry is another one who has been in and out of the side, he’s out of contract this year, I think clubs will view him as a potential bargain option."
Robertson hails from Western Australia, while Berry was recruited to the Lions from the Greater Western Victoria Rebels.
Brisbane currently have a handful of key names unsigned for next season, including Darcy Gardiner, Daniel McStay, Daniel Rich, Dayne Zorko and Berry, among others.
In looking to push for another top four finish, Brisbane will be seeking victory on Saturday night as they host state rival Gold Coast at the Gabba at 7:10pm (AEST).