The race for out-of-contract Giants star Stephen Coniglio is heating up, which is now seemingly down to three clubs.
According to AFL Nation's Mitch Cleary, Carlton could be firming as the gun midfielder's landing spot, who are offering a massive $1.3 million-a-season seven-year deal.
The Hawks are still in play but whispers surrounding the Blues have reportedly grown momentum over the last fortnight.
It is understood that the Giants have made their best offer to the 25-year old which still stands in the seven-figure region, while Hawthorn's deal is believed to be worth $1.1 million a season.
All clubs are prepared to offer up to seven-year deals.
St Kilda are also bidding for Coniglio's services but are an unlikely destination.
“This time six weeks ago all the talk was Hawthorn, but I think for the first time in the last fortnight I’ve heard Carlton as much as I’ve heard Hawthorn,” Cleary told AFL Nation.
“He’s got everything in front of him and he has had for the last eight weeks from the Giants. We understand he met with clubs during the mid-season bye and he has everything needed to make a decision.
“He’s a long shot to play again this year, so if it is the Giants, I don’t know what the hold-up is. Every week that goes on, you have to be less confident if you’re GWS.
“Carlton will be the biggest offer. They had that money ($1.3 million) for Dylan Shiel last year and didn’t fulfil it. It could be up to a seven-year deal.”
Coniglio will likely miss the rest of the 2019 season with a knee injury.
