Mitchell wants to stay in Sydney

Sydney midfielder Tom Mitchell says he wants to remain a Swan, despite reports linking him to several rival clubs.

Mitchell has put contract talks on hold with the Swans, with the two parties unable to come to an agreement.

Hawthorn and West Coast are believed to be interested in the 23-year-old, however, he has told the Herald Sun that he would prefer to stay at Sydney.

“Yeah, definitely. I think it’s been proven the club has been successful for a long period of time and hopefully we can continue that this year. There’s some exciting times ahead," Mitchell told the Herald Sun.

“I did grow up in Melbourne and it is great to come down and see family and friends every time I’m down here. I love coming down here, but at the same time I’ve got a lot of great mates in Sydney and I enjoy my time up there too.”

Mitchell has played 59 games in five seasons at the Swans, but has enjoyed his best season yet in 2016, averaging 27.6 disposals, 6.3 tackles and four marks, playing every game this year.