Rival clubs are reportedly keeping an eye on contracted St Kilda star Rowan Marshall, who is said to be a chance to "have a look around" on the open market this year.
Marshall is signed with the Saints until the end of the 2027 season, having inked a five-year extension in 2022 following reported interest from Essendon.
The Saints ruckman is one of six players at Moorabbin currently penned to a deal for the next three years at least, with Jack Steele, Callum Wilkie, Jack Sinclair, Jack Higgins and recruit Liam Henry also signed through to 2027.
But despite Marshall's status as a contracted Saint and amid a period where the Saints find themselves between premiership contention or a rebuild, the 28-year-old's name has been raised as a potential trade option at season's end.
According to 9 News reporter Tom Morris, Marshall is seen to be "a little bit less settled than others" at St Kilda and presents as a name to keep an eye on as the year progresses.
"I'd keep an eye on Rowan Marshall at St Kilda," Morris told SEN Breakfast.
"They're not the most settled environment at the moment the Saints. Clubs have become aware more recently that Marshall is one of those players that might have a look around if the right deal presents itself.
"There's a few ifs and buts here, but I'm not saying that about Jack Sinclair, I'm not saying this about other players.
"Rowan Marshall is just a little bit less settled than others. Other clubs are absolutely aware of that (issue at the Saints) at this point of the season."
Marshall is arguably the Saints' most important player under Ross Lyon, with his balance of athleticism, strength and ruck craft having him rank as one of the premier big men in the competition.
A key piece in the club's future, retaining Marshall's services remains paramount for Lyon and the club's prospects for finals contention in the coming years.
While the Saints are unlikely to open discussions on a move that would see the Heathmere product depart, Marshall could demand a sizeable trade package in return if a keen suitor were to emerge.
The Saints are already needing to deal with free agent Josh Battle this year, who is said to be on the radar of several rival clubs as he weighs up his future.
Falling under the unrestricted free agent tag, Battle could depart the Saints with no resistance from the club, who would pocket draft compensation for his loss.
