Greater Western Sydney are understood to have begun contract talks with gun midfielder Tim Taranto in hope of staving off imminent interest from Victorian clubs.
The 24-year-old has been a key figure in the Giants' midfield since stepping foot into the Harbour City club as Pick 2 of the 2016 draft, having played 98 games across five seasons.
Off-contract this season and reportedly of interest to St Kilda in recent years, Taranto would be highly coveted to clubs able to table offers north of market price for the star onballer.
A substantial deal would be needed to pry Taranto from the orange and charcoal, with the Giants ball-winner ranked elite for disposals, tackles and clearances last season.
Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
According to The Herald Sun, Greater Western Sydney have opened discussions with Taranto's manager Matt Bain in hope of securing the Sandringham Dragons product for the future.
Bain was quick to rule out any chance of his client departing the Giants two years ago when reported interest from the Saints emerged, with the player agent stating there was "zero truth" to the speculation that Taranto could venture to the Victorian club.
Melbourne sides are sure to circle Taranto's services this year after missing out on fellow Giants midfielder Josh Kelly, Stephen Coniglio and Jacob Hopper, who all signed new deals in recent seasons.
Taranto finished fourth in the Giants' best and fairest tally last year, trailing Kelly, star forward Toby Greene and Hopper.
Greene is set to miss the opening month of this season due to suspension, with Taranto potentially being utilised in attack in Greene's absence.
The Giants will begin their 2022 season against cross-town rivals Sydney at Accor Stadium on Saturday, March 19.
