The Western Bulldogs are reportedly awaiting a powerhouse rival's all-in play for rising key forward Jamarra Ugle-Hagan next year.
The Bulldogs recently re-signed high-marking goalkicker Aaron Naughton to an astronomical eight-year contract extension after the Sydney Swans reportedly staged a late surge to try and lure the 23-year-old Western Australian.
While Dogs supporters celebrated Naughton's gargantuan recommitment, it left questions over running mate Ugle-Hagan's long-term future at the Kennel.
Ugle-Hagan, who was chosen first overall at the 2020 National Draft by the Bulldogs, immediately drew comparisons to Sydney Swans legend 'Buddy' Franklin, and now, a report suggests the Harbour City club is preparing a major 2024 play for the burgeoning Bulldog.
The 21-year-old's current contract expires at the conclusion of next season, with numerous rivals expected to come calling if the left-footer hasn't signed a new deal at Whitten Oval by this time next year.
According to a Friday afternoon report by News Corp journalist Scott Gullan, higher-ups at the Bulldogs are expecting an attempted poach of Ugle-Hagan by the Sydney Swans next season following their unsuccessful play for teammate Naughton this year.
Gullan's report cites comments from an unnamed AFL list manager, who is strong in their conviction that Sydney will 'go big' for Ugle-Hagan next season after missing on Naughton.
"There is no doubt the Swans will go big for Jamarra," the anonymous list boss reportedly said.
"It was like they were almost testing the waters with Naughton, of course if he'd said yes they would have been happy but the one who ticks all the boxes for them is Jamarra."
Ugle-Hagan, an Oakleigh Chargers graduate, played all 23 games for the Bulldogs this season, managing a respectable 35 goals as he progressively adjusts to the AFL system.
The Bulldogs' Next Generation Academy-linked gun hails from south-west Victoria, having attended Warrnambool College and playing his junior football in the regional town.