The race for Suns sensation Matt Rowell's signature is shaping up to be one of the stories of the coming season, with as many as four Victorian clubs now linked to the former No.1 pick.
Rowell is off-contract in 2025 after the two-year extension he signed back in 2022 nears its end, with clubs - and the Suns - set to fight for his services for next year onwards.
It was revealed this week that Geelong had met with Rowell in October to get an early gauge of his plans for the future, with the Cats hoping to lure the Oakleigh Chargers product to Kardinia Park.
Geelong won't be the only side pursuing Rowell's signature however, with Collingwood, Essendon and the Western Bulldogs all said to be interested also, per The Age.
The publication's report suggests the Suns are confident they'll keep Rowell, who is entering his sixth season with the Carrara club.
Rowell enjoyed a career-best year with Gold Coast in 2024, ranking top five in the AFL for contested possessions, clearances and tackles on his way to polling 25 Brownlow votes - good for equal seventh.
The inside onballer isn't eligible for free agency for another two years, with any deal until the end of 2027 also aligning with Tasmania's expected introduction into the AFL.
Rowell's best friend, Noah Anderson, is tied to the Suns until the end of 2027 after inking a four-year deal, while the club has Mac Andrew, Charlie Ballard, Bailey Humphrey, Will Powell, Daniel Rioli and Joel Jeffrey on long-term contracts.
On top of Rowell's call, the Suns have Sam Collins, Connor Budarick and Nick Holman among a list of players unsigned beyond this season.