The GWS Giants are reportedly expected to retain a veteran utility in spite of recent speculation about a potential departure.
Nick Haynes, who has plied his trade for the Giants across multiple sections of the ground, was thought to be a possible cap casualty, with reports suggesting his back-loaded contract could tempt GWS into a 'salary dump' deal with a rival club.
The 31-year-old is contracted for a further season in Sydney's West, with North Melbourne previously floated as a club that could potentially take on Haynes' hefty final contract year and gain an additional draft pick.
However,ย Haynes' manager, Robbie D'Orazio, has reportedly confirmed the 31-year-old has committed to seeing out his GWS contract next season, according to AFL Media journalist Riley Beveridge.ย
It means the Kangaroos, who flagged their interest in improving defensively following Ben McKay's departure to Essendon via free agency, have one less option on the table.
The Roos did add to their backline stocks on Friday afternoon, though, confirming their acquisition of delisted free agent Toby Pink, who was most recently on an AFL list in 2019 with the Sydney Swans.
Pink projects as a key-position backman prospect, as he has been playing in the defensive half with Glenelg in the SANFL.
Meanwhile, North Melbourne reportedly backed out of offering key-position defender Bigoa Nyuon a contract through unrestricted free agency, as it apparently would have diluted the Roos' 'Band One' compensation for the loss of McKay.
The Shinboners are still likely to acquire Nyuon this off-season, though it will need to be via delisted free agency or the Pre-Season Draft.
SEE ALSO: TRADE NEWS & RUMOURS HUB
This year's free agency signing period closed on Friday evening, with the conclusion of the exchange period set for next Wednesday, October 18 at 7:30 PM (AEDT).
The delisted free agency signing period commences on Wednesday, November 1.
