Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge says his club needs to garner the title of being a 'destination club' if they are to embark on a premiership dynasty in the years to come.
Appearing on Fox Footy's On The Couch, Beveridge said Hawthorn had earned that title throughout their period of dominance and with several stars coming off contract at the end of 2017, the premiership-winning coach desires that title for the western suburbs club.
โThe Hawks for a long time had that destination club title which was very apt, theyโve earned that. And for us to be a club that players want to stay at, want to come to, weโve got to do a lot right every day," Beveridge said.
The topic of conversation comes as reports emerged last night that superstar halfback and Norm Smith medallist Jason Johannisen was being courted by Essendon for next season and beyond.
Channel 7's Mark Stevens first reported the news, with the Bombers' lack of pace making Johannisen a prime target.
Essendon had enquired about 'JJ' in the 2013 trade period before the Bulldogs signed him to a contract and are once again pursuing the speedster in 2017.
The Bulldogs have a host of young stars coming off contract, including the likes of Clay Smith and Marcus Adams, and Beveridge understands players will need to stay at the club for more than money if they are to retain their premiership crop.
"We're having good discussions with Jason's management," Beveridgeย said.
"There's no doubt he's become a very influential player and it's understandable that other clubs are interested.
โWeโll offer J a very solid contract but hope he wants to stay because he loves where he plays and he loves where he works and he loves his teammates."
