AFL journalist Damian Barrett believes Richmond star Dustin Martin met with North Melbourne players and representatives six weeks ago during the middle of the season.

Barrett told Channel Nine's The Footy Show on Thursday night that Martin met with a number of North Melbourne staff members including two of their most senior players, as the Roos are now showing how serious they are about recruiting the midfielder.

"They're so serious about it, they've actually met with Dustin Martin," Barrett told The Footy Show.

"It happened about six weeks ago and it involved members of the leadership group, including Jack Ziebell the captain, and key defender Robbie Tarrant was part of that gathering in a really significant attempt to get him to come and join them in 2018.

"There were other North Melbourne people involved in this meeting, but we know Ziebell and Tarrant were among the people who pitched significantly to Martin, and given its come so close to the end of the season, we know that North is obviously very serious about it and will not die wondering in their approach to Martin.

"Richmond can't match the offer, they will probably be $2 million short over that seven-year period in what they can pitch, so it comes down to Martin wanting to stay for less or go for the money."

Martin's future continues to be a hot topic of conversation across the competition, as the free agent is still reportedly yet to decide where he will play next season.

The 26-year-old will fly to New Zealand during the pre-finals bye week and meet with his father, and likely speak about his future, and could come to a decision while overseas.

Martin is enjoying the best season of his career in 2017, and is averaging 30.1 disposals, 3.7 tackles, 6.2 inside 50s, 6.7 clearances and 4.4 marks per game this season, and has also added 30 goals.