Carlton is set to enter talks with the AFL and Liam Jones' management about compensation should the former Blue return to the top flight with a rival club, per reports from The Age.
Jones departed the Blues in 2021 after refusing to comply with the AFL's mandatory vaccination mandates, choosing to call an end to his career in November despite having a year to run on his contract. Carlton chose not to retain the key defender on their active list.
The 31-year-old is reportedly seeking to make a comeback next season, should the AFL loosen their vaccine policy, which the Blues are reportedly comfortable with, but will seek something in exchange.
Under AFL rules, contracted players who retire are unable to return to another club for 18 months, ruling Jones out until mid-2023. However, Carlton won't "stand in the way” of any potential comeback in the national draft, should they receive a compensation pick from the league.
The former Blue and Bulldog has been linked with a possible career reprisal at the Bombers, after being spotted meeting with Essendon list manager Adrian Dodoro prior to Round 17.
Jones played 161 games during his career, 66 at the Western Bulldogs and 95 for the Blues and has spent 2022 playing for Palm Beach Currumbin in the QAFL.
