7NEWS journalist Mark Stevens reports that the Essendon have increased their offer to a five-year deal for star defender Adam Saad.
Essendon is going very hard to keep Adam Saad.
Offer is now FIVE years, matching rivals for length and close on dollars.
Saad a very solid citizen, big decision to make.
Five years a massive commitment from @essendonfc who have been good for his career.@7AFL @7NewsMelbourne— Mark Stevens (@Stevo7AFL) September 29, 2020
Saad is reportedly "split down the middle" on deciding his future as a number of rival clubs circle.
The 26-yer-old is hoping to better understand the direction the Bombers are heading despite the club upping their offer to a five-year deal.
Speaking on the Fox Footy Podcast, reporter Tom Morris believes Saad is no closer to a deal with the Bombers, while Carlton, North Melbourne and Melbourne continue their pursuit.
โThe varying reports are really interesting because my firm understanding is not even Adam Saad knows what heโs doing next year,โ he said.
โHeโs split down the middle, heโs wrestling with his emotions and his future and doesnโt know what way heโs going to decide.
"Itโs not necessarily about the money, itโs about the direction of the club. All he wants are answers and probably a plan of attack that will see Essendon compete again.โ