Essendon have reportedly tabled a monster 6-year deal to vice-captain Andrew McGrath, to keep him at the club until the end of 2030.

McGrath would have plenty of rival suitors that could use his dash and dare off of halfback but is expected to remain at the Bombers.

AFL Media's Cal Twomey revealed that the club is moving quickly to re-sign the 25-year-old to a massive long-term deal, joining the likes of Ben McKay, Darcy Parish, Jordan Ridley and Mason Redman.

"He's a restricted free agent, so clearly he's been in the best-paid players at the Bombers for a little while now, heading into this free agency decision," Twomey said onย Gettable.

"But, my understanding is that the Bombers have tabled a six-year offer to keep McGrath at the club.

"Vice-captain at the Bombers. Been used as a full-time defender since Brad Scott got to the footy club."

Since being taken with Pick 1 in the 2016 National Draft, McGrath has played 139 games in the red and black while also taking home the 2017 AFL Rising Star award.

With captaincy in his future, the Brighton Grammar product will benefit from being under the tutelage of current skipper Zach Merrett.

Young gun Archie Perkins's contract status is also looming, while Harrison Jones is another key prospect that needs to be locked away for the club.

Veterans Dylan Shiel, Dyson Heppell, Jake Kelly, Jake Stringer and Matt Guelfi will look to wrap their deals up during the year while midfielder Jye Caldwell has earned a multi-season contract.

McGrath's start to 2024 has been impressive in a revamped backline, ranking elite for disposals (25.4), kicks (16.8) and metres gained (536.7).

Sitting at 3-2, the Bombers face the tough environment of a hostile Adelaide Oval against the Crows this Friday night.