Rival clubs are tipped to come calling for Essendon captain Dyson Heppell should his future at Tullamarine remain up in the air.
The 30-year-old is yet to re-sign with the club beyond this season, however is believed to be keen to play on in 2023.
The Bombers skipper is among a lengthy list of players currently off-contract at Essendon this season, with list manager Adrian Dodoro having a sizeable task on his hands this year.
Heppell is joined by Andrew McGrath, Tom Cutler, Aaron Francis, Brayden Ham, Michael Hurley, Alec Waterman, James Stewart, Matt Guelfi and Andrew Phillips in being unsigned for next season, while several fledgling youngsters are also yet to recommit.
According to AFL.com.au, the Leongatha native is yet to receive an offer for 2023 from Essendon, leaving Heppell as no certainty to be donning the sash next season.
Cal Twomey's reports suggests rival clubs could pursue the half-back should Essendon and Heppell fail to come to agreed terms on a new deal.
Heppell has been with the Bombers since 2011, earning the Rising Star Award in his debut season before best and fairest and All-Australian honours in 2014.
The Gippsland Power product was named captain of the club in 2017 and has tallied 207 AFL matches since his debut.
Heppell's experience and leadership would be a fitting match for a club like North Melbourne, who are believed to be in pursuit of a veteran leader at season's end.
Should he part ways with the red and black, Arden Street could be a fitting destination for the backman, while a role with a contending club may be more tempting.
Essendon are expected to be major players in this year's exchange windows, with the club set to attack free agency and trade markets once again.
The Bombers have been linked to Giants Tim Taranto and Sun Izak Rankine this year, while they could also show interest in Bulldog Josh Dunkley and Giants Jacob Hopper following previous interest.
Both Essendon and Heppell will be looking to extend their strong run of form this weekend and hopefully make it four wins in five weeks against the Suns on Sunday at Marvel Stadium.
