Out-of-contract Tiger Liam Baker is said to be drawing rival interest ahead of the 2024 season, with several Victorian clubs reportedly eyeing the Western Australian.
According to reports from Jon Ralph of The Herald Sun, the soon-to-be full-time midfielder is said to be keen to put contract talks on hold at the present to gauge where the Tigers stand under Adem Yze's new management.
Baker previously turned down the opportunity to return home two seasons ago, instead opting to re-sign at Tigerland. However, now 26 and on an expiring deal, the Eagles and Dockers are sure not to be the only team in the race for the hard-nut's signature.
As raised by Ralph, Baker could soon become a genuine target of Victorian rivals in Essendon, Hawthorn, North Melbourne and St Kilda, with each of the aforementioned quartet boasting sizable salary cap space and a keen desire to add to their midfields.
Across the course of his 110 games as a Tiger, Baker has acted as one of Richmond's most flexible talents, filling roles ahead of the ball, behind it and in the centre with aplomb.
Baker averaged north of 19 disposals and less than a clearance per game across his 23 outings in 2023 - figures that are sure to see a spike as he spends more time at stoppages in 2024.
The fan favourite will earn his next opportunity to contribute to the Tigers' cause when Richmond does battle with Collingwood in their second pre-season scratch match at Princes Park next Tuesday evening.
Baker and the Tigers will then travel north to face Damien Hardwick at the Suns on Saturday, March 9 as part of the league's inaguaral Opening Round.
