With the potential of another season outside of the eight, Melbourne has reportedly set their sights on star Essendon half back flanker Adam Saad.
Fox Footy's Tom Morris has reported that the Dees have identified a need to inject speed and skills this off season - something the 26-year old has in abundance.
Should Saad's contract negotiations with the Bombers continue to falter, expect Melbourne to enter the picture.
Earlier this week, Jon Ralphย reported that a four-year deal for Saad had been tabled by Essendon. However, despite the fact this proposed deal will keep the speedster in a sash until his thirtieth birthday, talks have halted in recent weeks.
Negotiations are set to begin again after the Bomber's coincidental clash with the Demons this weekend.
Despite not having spoken directly to other clubs, Saad and his manager (John Meesen of Kapital Sports Group) will assess his options once he returns to Victoria.
Although it has been reported that Saad loves the club, it has been suggested that he is desperate to be a part of a successful team.
Having spent the first portion of his career with the struggling Suns and only managing a singular finals appearance in 108 games, this desire may lead him away from Tullamarine.
Although the Demons are keen to secure the former Coburg Lion's service, there will be a price tag attached.
Should the ladder remain as is, Melbourne's first selection in this year's draft will be that of pick 22. This selection alone would almost certainly be rebuked by Adrian Dodoro.
Foxfooty.com spoke to three clubs on Tuesday about what the cost of prying Saad loose would involve. The resounding response was that it would take a five year deal in the vicinity of $550,000 to $600,000 to get the bearded backman interested.
With Pick 22 almost certain to be seen as insufficient, Melbourne may need to package out of form forward Tom McDonald in any potential deal.
Irrespective of whether Joe Daniher is to stay or go, McDonald's name is likely to be one that will pique Dodoro and his list management team's interest.
With only nine games in the red and blue this season,ย Morrisreported that those within the Melbourne inner sanctum believe that a change of scenery would serve McDonald best.
Melbourne and Essendon will face off at Metricon Stadium this Saturday at 2:10 pm.
