Brisbane’s Deven Robertson reportedly set to fend off interstate interest: AFL trade news

Off-contract Brisbane Lions midfielder Deven Robertson is reportedly preparing to turn his back on rival interest and recommit to the Lions.

The 22-year-old Robertson, the No. 22 draft selection in 2019, hails from Western Australia and has been continually linked to the West Coast Eagles.

According to The Herald Sun's Jon Ralph, though, Robertson appears likely to fend off West Coast's overtures due to the perceived long-term rebuilding period facing the WA club.

Further, per Ralph's report, the most likely outcome appears to be a two-year contract extension at Brisbane for Robertson, who has begun to properly integrate himself into Chris Fagan's side this season after limited opportunity during his first three league campaigns.

After just one appearance in his 2020 debut season, Robertson played 16 games in 2021 before managing just eight outings last season.

Having played seven games to this point in 2023, Robertson looks poised to eclipse last year's total and continue building as he edges toward a new deal.

Despite a bevy of fresh faces occupying valuable midfield minutes at the Lions, including the likes of Josh Dunkley and Will Ashcroft in addition to their already-established brigade, Robertson has continued to battle for his spot in Brisbane's premiership-contending outfit.

Robertson and the Lions battered Richmond on Thursday night to the tune of 81 points, as Brisbane's emerging midfielder collected 15 disposals, five marks, and five clearances, and played almost 80 percent of the contest.

Brisbane plays the struggling Eagles in Round 17 at The Gabba.