Melbourne has confirmed its interest in wantaway Fremantle youngster, Harley Balic.

Balic, 20, was granted leave by the Dockers this seasons on two separate occasions due to homesickness and officially requested a trade home to Victoria at the end of the season.

Melbourne has long reportedly been the front runner to secure the former No.38 draft pick and Demons head of football Josh Mahoney told AFL Trade Radio on Thursday the club is hopeful a deal can be done with the Dockers.

"We're interested in Balic and we've spoken to Fremantle about that. We think it could get done this trade period," Mahoney said.

But the Dees' footy boss said any trade for Balic is likely to occur late in the trade period.

“We’re still having discussions with Fremantle at the moment,” he said.

“We’ve probably got other priorities at the moment, both clubs. We’ll be able to move on that probably a bit later.”

HARLEY BALIC 2015 DRAFT PROFILE

The highly rated youngster made his debut in round three this season, playing four games before his first leave of absence. 

He averaged 13 disposals, three tackles and three marks in his four games this season.