Geelong free agent Cameron Guthrie has stated he is "super committed" to the Cats, as contract negotiations between the All-Australian midfielder and the club progress.
The 28-year-old remains unsigned for the 2022 season in the middle of another stellar year in the navy blue and white hoops.
Off the back of his Carji Greeves Medal win from last year, Guthrie has continued to flourish in Geelong's engine room as one of Chris Scott's most lethal onballers.
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Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
The Cats have managed a strong retention drive this season, re-signing Joel Selwood, Jake Kolodjashnij, Jack Henry, Esava Ratugolea, Jed Bews, Sam De Koning and Cooper Stephens to new deals in 2021.
Guthrie remains among a bevy of key Cats that are yet to know their future beyond season's end, however has stated his desire to remain in Geelong.
When asked on whether he will be at Kardinia Park next season, Guthrie reassured his future lies with the Cats.
"I would definitely hope that's the case," he said. "I'm super committed here.
"We're working towards an outcome at the moment that I think both parties will be really pleased with."
The Cats remain in the frame for a premiership once again this season, currently occupying second place on the ladder with three matches left in their home and away campaign.
Despite splitting some focus on his contract situation early into 2021, the focal point of Guthrie's season is now firmly set on his side's premiership contention.
"I've made it a priority to play really good footy and let that take care of itself," Guthrie added.
"It was on my mind a little bit early in the year, but honestly coming into finals it's much more exciting to think about playing footy and realising a goal and a dream with the team rather than thinking about a couple of pieces of paper."
The Cats ball-magnet remains unsure when he will be able to sign on the dotted line, but remains positive in how talks are progressing.
"I'm not sure the exact timeline yet, we'll see how it plays out," he said.
"We're working hard to reach an agreement both sides are happy with and I'm hoping that'll be soon."
Guthrie will play his 200th game for the Cats on Friday night as Geelong host Greater Western Sydney at GMHBA Stadium.
Selection will once again leave coach Chris Scott with a headache, as a number of fringe players continue to knock on the door for a call-up.
Last weekend's 20-point win over North Melbourne saw Zach Guthrie, Cam's younger brother, thrive as a late inclusion for the injured Tom Atkins.
Defender
Marks
Disposals
Tackles
The young defender was among Geelong's best - which included Cam - and is sure to hold his place in Scott's backline against the Giants.
Despite a career-best performance, his older brother said it was an outing he and the club have come to expect.
"I thought he played really well and I wasn't absolutely wrapped for him or anything like that, I think he just went out and did his job, and that's what's expected of him," Guthrie said.
"That's what I'm expecting of him as a teammate as well.
"He plays like that most weeks in the VFL so there wasn't necessarily a shock to see him take his marks and use the ball really well.
"We've got a lot of young players who can come into the team and play their part. [I'm] looking forward to seeing what Zach can do for the rest of the season, but also our other young guys."
Among the crop of exciting young names pushing for selection are Charlie Constable and Jordan Clark.
The duo also join the list of players at the Cattery that are out-of-contract and are tipped to gain interest from rival clubs for next season.
Midfielder Quinton Narkle has also found it hard to cement his place in the Cats' senior side this season, and is understood to be on the radar of as many as five clubs.
