Adelaide are understood to have made midfielder Matt Crouch aware that his tenure at West Lakes won't be extended beyond his current contract.
Crouch, who turned his back on free agency last year to sign a new two-year deal, has found opportunities at AFL level hard to come by this year, with form and injuries playing a part in the 2017 best and fairest winner's campaign.
The frustrations follow last year's injury-riddled season for Crouch, who was forced to sit out the entire year with a groin issue.
The 27-year-old made his return in Round 1 against Fremantle, beforing facing the chop at selection on three occasions.
The questions around Crouch's future now look to be answered, with Crows coach Matthew Nicks understood to have notified his senior ball-winner of the club's decision not to offer a new deal beyond 2023, according to Nine News reporter, Will Crouch.
“Senior coach Matthew Nicks met with Matt Crouch during last week and told the midfielder the news he’s no doubt been dreading, that he will not be receiving a new contract with the club, effectively ending his tenure at West Lakes,” Will Crouch said on Tuesday night.
“Crouch was understandably furious at this decision and it’s no surprise. He’s a former club champion, he’s been a member of the leadership group, and by all accounts a great club man, respected by his teammates.
“Crouch is still contracted for next season which is where this gets a little bit complicated. Because following this recent conversation with Matthew Nicks, he’s almost certain to be at a new club come 2023 - that’s next season.
“And a recent quad injury means he may have already played his last game at the club.”
The report comes on the same day veteran forward Taylor Walker identified his side's midfield as an area the Crows will need to bolster this off-season.
Speaking on Triple M, Walker expressed a need for further support around the young Adelaide engine room.
"We still need some help," Walker said.
"We've got to get some talent in to help those guys.
"They're not going to be able to do it with just that core group."
The former skipper said he's pleased with the development and performances of the young players at the Crows, especially in recent weeks."
Crouch is currently nursing a minor quad injury that saw him ruled out of action in the SANFL last weekend as a late withdrawal, with the Ballarat product still in the frame to play this week.
Adelaide will host Carlton at Adelaide Oval on Saturday night in the AFL, while the SANFL is scheduled for a league-wide bye.
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