In-form Carlton defender Nic Newman is likely to gain the attention of the AFL's Match Review officer for a strike on Brisbane star Lachie Neale during Friday night's loss to the Lions.

Newman gave away a free-kick for the off-ball incident during the third quarter of the Round 8 match, with the officiating umpire paying a high contact free kick against Newman.

Replays of the incident show Newman motioning for a bump/shove on Neale as the pair circled an incoming boundary throw in, with the latter falling to the ground as a result of the incident.

Newman's left arm collects Neale's chest before rising up further and making contact with the Brownlow Medal winner's chin, with Neale left holding his jaw as a result of the raised elbow.

Newman's actions are expected to gain the attention, and possibly scrutiny, of the MRO, who is likely to view the incident as intentional conduct given the strike took place away from the ball.

While a grading of low impact may also be likely, high contact was made on Neale, potentially resulting in a one-game suspension for the Blues defender.

A one-game sanction would come as a result of the MRO assessing Newman's actions as intentional conduct, low impact and high contact.

Should Newman be handed the suspension and accept the charge, the former Swan will miss his side's Round 9 clash with the Western Bulldogs next Saturday.

Newman has been one of the Blues' best players across the course of the opening eight seven of the season, proving to be a valuable lockdown option under Michael Voss while averaging a career-high 23.14 disposals per game.

The MRO will release their findings from Friday's game on Saturday evening.