Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin has admitted that while the Demons would love to re-sign out-of-contract stars Luke Jackson and Angus Brayshaw, the club is willing to be patient with the duo.
Jackson has assumed the number one ruck spot in the absence of captain Max Gawn while rival clubs circle for his signature, with the lure of returning home to a Western Australian club on the table for the 20-year-old.
Speaking to media on Wednesday morning, Goodwin revealed that he was "hopeful" the young talent would recommit to the Demons, but wouldn't rush a contact decision.
"Luke's just going through a process with his management and the club, and looking at all his various options," Goodwin said.
"He's a young player, he's in his third season of AFL footy and he's an incredibly talented player.
"He was pick three in the draft, he's played (43) games, he's played in a premiership.
"This will play out in its due course and we're really hopeful based on Luke's attitude towards this footy club and this team that he'll want to be part of the Melbourne footy club for a long time to come.
"There's no rush to get this answer out of Luke. He needs time to make his decision and we'll give him the time he needs."
The reigning premiers are also chasing the signature of their star Brayshaw, with the 26-year-old becoming a free agent in 2022.
Brayshaw has played 133 games for the Demons across his eight years at the club and has been enjoying a stellar 2022 campaign, averaging 25.3 disposals per game. As one of the biggest free agents in the game, Brayshaw is attracting plenty of interest, with Geelong reportedly with their eyes on the star.
Like with their young ruck protege, the Demons are willing to take their time as Brayshaw explores his options, with Goodwin conceding free agency was a given part of the industry.
"He's been a big part of our culture and driving our club forward," Goodwin said.
"We want to make sure that he's here for the long haul.
"He's going through a process himself and he's got some big decisions to make.
"He's at that age (26) now where you can be a one-club player or you can just have a little look around and Gus is a free agent.
"That's how our industry works but what I do know about Gus is he's put a lot into this footy club and he's very passionate about it."
After a dominant performance in Round 15 to get back to their winning ways, Melbourne next head to South Australia to take on the Crows at Adelaide oval on Saturday afternoon.
