Wantaway Giant Tanner Bruhn is understood to have nominated Geelong as his preferred landing spot for 2023 as he looks to sever ties with GWS after just two years.
Bruhn has been linked to the exit and a potential return to Victoria in recent months, having emerged as a potential trade target for several keen suitors south of the border.
Geelong, North Melbourne and Hawthorn have all been linked to the 20-year-old, who has played 30 games for the Giants since joining the club as the 12th overall selection in the 2020 National Draft.
The three-horse race is now reportedly decided, with AFL.com.au's Cal Twomey revealing Bruhn has nominated the Cats as his favoured destination for next season.
Bruhn's decision is a big win for the Cats, who have seemingly lost in their pursuit of Giant Jacob Hopper, who is understood to have picked Richmond as his preferred next club.
The Giants are likely to demand a first-round selection for Bruhn's services, having used an early selection on the young midfielder two years ago.
While Bruhn's contract is expiring, the Cats and Giants will need to broker a trade to see the young midfielder land at Kardinia Park.
Geelong's first-round pick will fall at No. 16-18 in the draft order depending on how they perform in the AFL finals.
Bruhn was a product of the Geelong Falcons, where he impressed in his draft year to land among his class's top onballers.
Fellow 2020 first-round selection Ollie Henry has also been linked to a potential move to Geelong, another local product out of the region.
