Brisbane midfielder Hugh McCluggage isn't in a rush to re-sign with the Lions but is comfortable with where things sit as he weighs up whether to exercise his rights as a free agent.
McCluggage is one of eight remaining restricted free agents in 2024, with fellow Lions onballer Jarrod Berry joining the South Warrnambool product in falling under the restricted band.
The Lions vice-captain is enjoying arguably his best season in Queensland this year, working in tandem with Lachie Neale and Josh Dunkley to create a formidable midfield three-piece.
Currently enjoying his football in Brisbane, McCluggage is still weighing up what is best for his future but has reassured the Lions that he loves his time in the Sunshine State.
"The club's been great, my manager has been great. They just let me keep playing footy," McCluggage told media on Tuesday.
"I don't have to worry about it too much, to be honest. We both know where I sit. I love it here, I enjoy playing footy with this group and living in Queensland.
"I think we both want to get something done, it's taking its time and that's okay. It's just simmering away in the background. I'm focused on playing as well as I can and making sure we continue to build our form.
"There's certain aspects that need to be negotiated, that's part of a contract. The club has to work out what's best for them. Trots (manager Dave Trotter) and I have to work out what's best for me.
"I'm proud I've got to this stage where I'm able to sign for a longer period and can set myself up, but there are things that have to be worked through."
The 25-year-old has reportedly garnered interest from as many as four Victorian clubs this year, while Brisbane are said to have tabled a long-term extension to their outside midfielder.
McCluggage signed his first contract extension with the Lions following his debut season with the club, and would again recommit ahead of the 2021 season on a deal that is set to expire at the cessation of the current season.
Both deals were settled outside of the season window, with McCluggage potentially keen to do the same in 2024.
"Not really, to be honest," McCluggage said when asked if there was a time he'd like to decide on his future.
"Every other contract I've signed I've been flexible with when that's happened. It's not concerning me at all and I don't think it's concerning anywhere else.
"You sign until the end of the year for a reason, so that you can have that time to work through things and that's where we sit at the minute."
McCluggage has played 163 games for the Lions since joining the club as the third overall pick in 2016, managing no fewer than 18 games in each season.
