Victorian clubs are reportedly circling Giants star Josh Kelly once again amid the gun midfielder's massive $8 million contract decision.
The Age'sย Jake Niall reports that "Melbourne clubs have renewed their interest in the knowledge that heโs gettable" as the 26-year old weighs up entering free agency at season's end.
At the start of 2019, Kelly re-signed with the Giants on a unique two-year deal with multiple reports suggesting he has a trigger option for eight years on a contract worth close to $1 million per season.
But since his extension the Giants have been on a downward spiral, tumbling down the ladder and losing a host of stars to rival clubs.
Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
They are one of five clubs to start 2021 with a 0-2 record through two rounds as pressure begins to mount on coach Leon Cameron.
It leaves Kelly with a massive decision to make on his future - opt in to a mega $8 million deal to remain at Western Sydney or return to Victoria.
SEE ALSO: Zero Hanger's Round 2 Power Rankingsย
According to Niall, Essendon, North Melbourne and Hawthorn are the three clubs that could accommodate for Kelly's current massive salary, while other teams would need to make significant moves.
The Kangaroos have previously shown massive interest in Kelly, just three years ago reportedly offering him a nine-year $9 million.
Another key factor is that Kelly's form has been subpar in the last 12 months given he was once thought to be a potential bonafide superstar of the competition, such as Marcus Bontempelli and Dustin Martin.
He averaged 27.9 disposals per game from 2017 to 2019 and has gone at 22.5 since, albeit with reduced quarters in 2020 bringing down that mark.
Through two rounds of 2021 he has averaged his lowest disposal numbers in six years.
Garry Lyon said on SEN this morning that Kelly is currently "not close to moving the needle" as a million-dollar superstar.
โJosh Kelly was touted heavily that he was going to take over the competition. He hasnโt,โ Lyon said onย SEN Breakfast.
โHeโs not close to moving the needle right now. Heโs not close to being a game influencer.โ
