The AFL have confirmed Western Bulldogs defender Zaine Cordy has joined St Kilda as an unrestricted free agent.

Cordy joins the Saints after eight seasons in the blue, white and red, where he played 118 games and featured in the club's 2016 premiership win over Sydney.

His addition to St Kilda's rearguard will aid Brett Ratten's defence, which is already home to the likes of Dougal Howard, Jack Sinclair and Cal Wilkie.

“I'm really happy to be joining the Saints,” Cordy said in a club statement.

“While I loved my time at the Bulldogs and will forever be grateful for the opportunities they gave me, I'm confident the time is right for this next chapter of my career.

“I'm looking forward to meeting all my teammates and coaches after the break and getting stuck into a big pre-season.”

The AFL are have not granted compensation to the Western Bulldogs, who won't receive a draft selection after acquiring Liam Jones through free agency earlier this week.

Reports have suggested Cordy has signed a three-year deal with the Saints after turning down a two-year offer to remain at the Kennel.

Cordy played 14 games in 2022, averaging 7.79 disposals, 2.36 marks and 2.07 tackles per game.