Josh Dunkley and Bailey Smith during the 2022 AFL Round 1 match between Melbourne and Western Bulldogs (Photo by Cameron Grimes / Zero Digital Media)
Port Adelaide are understood to be among the rival AFL clubs showing interest in out-of-contract Bulldogs midfielder Josh Dunkley.
Despite a stellar re-signing spree this season, having locked away Jack Macrae, Caleb Daniel, Tim English and Bailey Dale, among others, Dunkley is yet to recommit to the Kennel beyond this season.
The 25-year-old last re-signed with the Bulldogs in 2019, signing a three-year deal amid a career-best campaign and pledging his future to the red, white and blue.
Only a year later he requested a trade to Essendon, a move that failed to transpire in what were well-documneted dealings between the two clubs.
Dunkley remained at the Bulldogs and is now facing the expiry of his contract, prompting further interest from circling clubs.
One side that is believed to be showing strong interest in his services is Port Adelaide, according to AFL.com.au.
Dunkley has been previously linked to a move to South Australian clubs this year, under the thought that he and his partner, Adelaide Thunderbirds player Tippah Dwan, would find life easier in the same state.
While the Crows have recently expressed a need for more midfield grunt, the Crows are yet to emerge as a reported club of interest in Dunkley.
The Power, however, could look to pry him out of Whitten Oval in a move to bolster their engine room, potentially looking to fill the void that will soon be left by Travis Boak.
Dunkley held off contract talks early into the year, but reports have suggested they have since ramped up with the Dogs following the aforementioned retentions of Daniel, Macrae English and Dale.
The Bulldogs are also yet to lock away rising star Bailey Smith, however there has been little to suggest the prized pup will be anywhere else in 2023.
Louis Butler, Zaine Cordy (UFA), Taylor Duryea (UFA), Riley Garcia, Jason Johannisen (UFA), Stefan Martin (UFA), Robbie McComb, Toby McLean (UFA), Charlie Parker, Cody Raak, Josh Schache, Mitch Wallis (UFA) and Rhylee West are also unsigned for 2023.
Dunkley has played 111 games for the Bulldogs since making his debut in 2016, playing a part in the club's drought-breaking grand final win that same season.