The manager of Fremantle captain Nat Fyfe has refuted rumours his client has re-signed with the Dockers on a new two-year deal, revealing contract talks aren't likely to progress until the season is underway.
Fyfe sees the lucrative six-year deal he signed in 2017 coming to an end this year, making him eligible to exercise his rights as a free agent in 2023.
The 31-year-old is one of just three free agents at Fremantle this year, joining sharpshooter Lachie Schultz and fellow veteran Michael Walters in being out of contract with some flexibility in their favour.
The Dockers also have youngster Liam Henry, defender Joel Hamling and backman Nathan Wilson among those off-contract, while the club was able to secure star midfielder Caleb Serong to a new until 2027 late last year.
Their attention is set to turn to Fyfe, who remains a key cog in Justin Longmuir's system despite playing just 36 games in the last three seasons.
Recent reports had suggested Fremantle had already secured Fyfe's signature until the end of 2025, however his manager Jason Dover has denied murmurs an agreement has been finalised.
“We're comfortable where things are at and will worry about the contract when the season starts,” Dover told The West Australian.
Fyfe is likely to feature between the forward third and midfield this year, which will be his 14th in purple.
The dual Brownlow Medal winner booted six goals from his seven games last season after returning from injury, averaging 15.14 disposals per game - the lowest season average in his career.
Fyfe is among the headlining names eligible for free agency in 2023 across the AFL, with Fremantle rivals West Coast in a similar situation with veteran defender Jeremy McGovern.
His reported seven-figure deal is set to expire this season, with rival clubs to potentially keep an eye on the premiership Eagle given West Coast's position amid a rebuild.
Bomber Darcy Parish, Roo Ben McKay and Bulldog Tom Liberatore are also listed as free agents this year, while Port Adelaide lead the league with nine free agents ahead of the Round 1.
