Western Bulldogs Training Session
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 18: Josh Dunkley of the Bulldogs in action during the Western Bulldogs AFL training session at Whitten Oval on May 18, 2020 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

The Western Bulldogs have ruled out a trade deal for Josh Dunkley after becoming aware of Essendon’s interest.

It is understood that the Bombers' offer is quite substantial and would see him locked in for at least four seasons, per Fox Footy's Tom Morris.

The Bulldogs would look to reject any offer for their star midfielder despite Essendon impressive draft hand and open salary.

Dunkley struggled with a syndesmosis injury this season, limiting him to just 12 games.

In 2019 Dunkley finished second in the Charles Sutton Medal and was named in the All-Australian squad of 40.

The star midfielder is contracted until the end of the 2022 season.