Melbourne have reportedly told defender Steven May to look for a new home in 2026 as the Demons look to preference playing youth next year.
According to 9 News' Tom Morris, May will not be guaranteed consistent games at senior level in 2026 as Melbourne's priorities shift toward a retool around their budding young talent and existing star forces, such as Harvey Langford and Kysaiah Pickett.
Morris stated that the Demons are "keen to play youth" in May's position, which would see him miss out on AFL opportunities in the final year of his contract, which is set to expire following the 2026 season.
While the Western Bulldogs are eager to bolster their defensive group, Morris reported that it's unlikely they will pursue May, but North Melbourne are expected to hunt the defender in hopes of becoming his third AFL club.
The report comes amid speculation that Melbourne also may be looking to ship off 2021 Norm Smith medallist and superstar midfielder Christian Petracca, as well as the recent appointment of Geelong assistant Stephen King as senior coach, highlighting further the changing of the guard taking place at the club.
Melbourne has told premiership defender Steve May to look for a third club.
The Demons are keen to play youth and can’t guarantee May senior games in 2026, which is the last year of his contract.@FootyonNine @9NewsMelb @1116sen
— Tom Morris (@tommorris32) September 18, 2025
May had another solid year in defence for the Demons, averaging a near career-high 2.8 intercept marks per game, 5.3 spoils and 17.7 disposals but it wasn't without controversy, involved in a number of on-field clashes with teammates as friction between players mounted during a disappointing campaign.
It was the 33-year-old's seventh year at Melbourne. May has earned two All-Australian blazers during his tenure and famously played a key role in the Dees' drought-breaking premiership in 2021.
