Western Bulldogs appear poised to retain All-Australian ruckman Tim English amid heavy interest from the west, with the club garnering "really positive" steps toward a re-signing.
English, who secured his maiden All-Australian blazer in 2023, has been in high demand as one of only two remaining restricted free agents left unsigned beyond this year.
The 26-year-old originally hails from West Australia, with the Eagles fielding strong interest as they look to rebuild to the powerhouse they once were.
However, Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge is optimistic that English will remain at the Kennel, saying that his decision will be made in due course but no pressure will be applied.
"Not really, no (timeline on when English will make his decision)," Beveridge said.
"I don't think that's ever really existed. We've never demanded to know about what the decision might be.
"Because I think conceptually and practically, it kind of can't happen until the end of the year sometimes. And we appreciate that.
"I think the conversations with Tim and his management, especially in recent times have been really positive.
"Whether a decision is imminent I'm not sure, but there's definitely no pressure on him to make a call right now."
The 2016 premiership coach also quipped saying he'd remove himself from "those conversation", leaving it up to list manager Sam Power to deal with the proceedings.
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"I stay out of it," Beveridge added.
"I stay in my lane on that. I let Sam (Power) deal with list management and those conversations and I'll be the coach in those circumstances."
As the Bulldogs surge into premiership contention, winning six of their past seven encounters with their only blemish coming against Port Adelaide, English's likelihood to stay would be increasing.
Seeking redemption for their 2021 grand final loss, there's a sense of unfinished business, while the uncompromising Dogs have been likened to their 2016 selves, creating history by ending a 62-year drought.
However, a finals appearance won't be handed to them despite their incredible run of form, with clashes against Adelaide (away), North Melbourne and GWS to round out the 2024 home and away season.
