Melbourne star Kysaiah Pickett has long been linked with a return to Western Australia, and Fremantle fans might get their wish following the 2025 season.

Pickett, who is currently signed until the end of the 2027 campaign, has always been a player of interest to the Dockers, despite being locked away by the Demons.

Leading into the 2024 trade period, it was reported that the 23-year-old was interested in heading west but was more than satisfied with remaining put if a deal could not be struck.

And fresh details have indicated that Pickett is looking to move again, with theย West Australian suggesting that the deal will be brokered by the end of the year.

"Melbourne star Kysaiah Pickett looks set to join Fremantle after the 2025 season, sources have told The West Australian," the report said.

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ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 15: Kysaiah Pickett of the Demons celebrates a goal during the 2023 AFL Round 05 match between the Essendon Bombers and the Melbourne Demons at Adelaide Oval on April 15, 2023 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

"It comes after the Demons premiership forward had been linked to a move home to Western Australia at the end of last year but ultimately remained at the club.

"However, it is understood the homesick star is now desperate to return to WA despite being contracted until the end of 2027.

"Sources have told The West that talks between his management and Fremantle have been ongoing and that โ€œa lot would have to go wrongโ€ for Pickett to not end up in purple next season.

"Club insiders also told The West signing the 23-year-old was currently a high priority for the Dockers."

Port Adelaide and West Coast have previously been interested in the small forward.

Fremantle essentially gave up their pursuit of Pickett last year when it found out they were more likely to land Richmond star Shai Bolton.

Shai Bolton and Caleb Serong of the Fremantle Dockers at training in 2024 (Image via Fremantle FC)

The Tigers were desperate to acquire high-end draft picks to accelerate their rebuild, and the Dockers could contribute by handing over two first-round selections for Bolton.

For a deal to be orchestrated, the Demons are well within their rights to also name at least two first-round selections for Pickett, meaning the West Australian club would need to delve into future picks.

This maneuver could ultimately draw a line through a pursuit of Sydney's Chad Warner, who is currently weighing up his future in New South Wales.

Pickett and Bolton will get the opportunity to team up in the Indigenous All-Stars clash against Fremantle in February.

However, the former won't be seen in Melbourne colours until Round 4 of the 2025 season due to a suspension.