Essendon has emerged as a potential new home for out-of-favour Demon Tom McDonald, according to SEN's Sam Edmund.

The Bombers are in search for a key forward after Joe Daniher exercised his free agency rights and headed to Brisbane, while they delisted fellow tall Shaun McKernan.

While McDonald could be seeking a new start after two disappointing seasons in the red and blue.

McDonald is contracted for a further two year, on a deal signed during his breakout 2018 season.

McDonald is keen to lock down a place in the Demons' forward line and has vowed to return leaner and more agile, but is well aware the club would be willing to trade him to avoid paying his salary going forward.

North Melbourne forward Ben Brown has nominated Melbourne as is preferred destination which is another reason the Dees may be keen to move McDonald on.

Brown is coming in on a big salary and is set to instantly become Melbourne's number one forward.

The Bombers are also keen on Gold Coast forward Peter Wright, who has found himself on the outer at the Suns.

Wright is believed to be on a big contract which is believed to be causing clubs to seriously consider whether he is worth bringing through the door.

Both the Suns and the Demons are reportedly willing to pay part of the salaries of their departing forwards.