Essendon is inching closer toward retaining Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti for the 2023 season, despite the 29-year-old hanging the boots up in mid-May.
The Bombers' impending decision comes in the wake of reports first made during the trade period that McDonald-Tipungwuti still harboured a desire to test his wares at the AFL level.
Both Essendon and Fremantle had previously been in the race to secure the goalscorer's signature, however, it appears as though familiarity may play in the Gippsland Power product's favour.
As reported by News Corp, McDonald-Tipungwuti had previously met with the Dockers regarding a spot on their senior list for next season. Still, despite their interest, Fremantle is said to be unwilling to offer the forward anything more than a train-on contract ahead of summer.
Having boosted his fitness in an effort to return to the playing field, McDonald-Tipungwuti has caught the Bombers' eye, with suggestions that if other markers are met, Essendon could well re-list the Tiwi native.
These aforementioned markers are said to relate to both body mass and mentality.
Essendon will have until Thursday, November 10 to decide whether to retain McDonald-Tipungwuti on their senior list for the 2023 season, or whether to effectively retire him.
Since joining the Dons via the 2015 Rookie Draft, McDonald-Tipungwuti has played 126 AFL games, slotting 153 goals in the process.
