Rival clubs are reportedly keeping a close eye on breakout Giant James Peatling, with the 23-year-old midfielder still yet to sign beyond 2024.
The 2021 mid-season draft pick has taken some time to break onto the scene and become an obvious mainstay on an AFL list, having his four year career broken up into just 41 games thus far, many of which as the activated sub.
But his recent form, particularly in the past four weeks, suggests he could be a star of the future, let alone routine member of a club's best 22.
He has struggled to hold his spot in the Giants' midfield over stars like Tom Green, Josh Kelly, Finn Callaghan, Stehen Coniglio and others, but has made the most of his good fortune by starring when his time arrived.
He's produced a number of ripping performances when he's earned the starting nod, showcasing his contested and defensive prowess with the following performances:
- 28 disposals, 11 tackles and eight clearances against Melbourne
- 24 disposals, eight tackles and six inside 50's against Sydney
- 20 disposals, six tackles and nine clearances against Brisbane
The last of these listed performances earned him a perfect 10 coaches votes despite the relatively average ball-winning volume, indicating high impact per possession.
There is no suggestion that Peatling wishes to move on from GWS aside from his contract status, being a New South Welshman who developed through Giants academy.
The wait to resign may be due to his recent form perhaps forcing a reevaluation of his price, since rivals are sure to offer up a handsome amount to lure him out.
The Age recently reported St Kilda's alleged interest in Peatling, a potential move that would clearly bolster their midfield depth but also add another like-type beside Jack Steele, Marcus Windhager and youngster Hugo Garcia, all of whom prioritise contest and defence as part of their play.
Herald Sun journalist Jay Clark believes a number of Victorian clubs would be keeping a watchful eye on the situation, being a player who just needs more minutes to be able to fulfil the potential he's displayed this season.
The upcoming finals campaign will be a telling period for Peatling's future prospects, financially and/or geographically.
The Giants are eyeing off a top-four position and Peatling looks set to secure his spot in the team for September, leaving a lot of clubs eager to analyse his performance on the biggest stage, should he not be re-signed by then.
Alternatively, he falls out of favour before finals and almost assuredly seeks a move elsewhere.
The return of injured veteran Stephen Coniglio will provide some headaches for coach Adam Kingsley, who may resort Peatling to a forward role to make room for the 30-year-old midfielder, or keep his in-form youngster in the mix while experimenting elsewhere.
Either way, September looms and has the footy world buzzing for all the right reasons, on-field and off-field.
The Giants prepare now for an almighty fortnight fight for their place in the top four, facing fellow contenders Fremantle and the Western Bulldogs in the lead up to the most anticipated finals series in recent memory.
