Brisbane out-of-contract midfielder Sam Marshall is gaining plenty of interest from rival clubs, including Melbourne, St Kilda, Essendon and the Western Bulldogs.

Marshall joined the Lions following his Pick 25 selection in the 2024 draft, and has played 13 games, including the Grand Final victory last year.

The 20-year-old was a member of the Lions Academy and was secured following a bid by Sydney.

But with limited senior opportunities and a stacked midfield under Chris Fagan that won't be changing anytime soon, Marshall has begun exploring his options in Victoria, and is set to return to the state where he went to school and played for the Sandringham Dragons, according to AFL Media.

The Saints have been linked to Marshall for some time given his bayside association when playing for the Dragons in the Talent League.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 15: Sam Marshall of the Lions looks on while warming up during the round 23 AFL match between the Fremantle Dockers and Brisbane Lions at Optus Stadium on August 15, 2025 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)
PERTH, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 15: Sam Marshall of the Lions looks on while warming up during the round 23 AFL match between the Fremantle Dockers and Brisbane Lions at Optus Stadium on August 15, 2025 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

The Bombers have strong connections between new coach Mark McVeigh and Marshall, with the pair working together at the Allies in the National Championships.

The Bulldogs and Demons are clearly looking to bolster their youth profile with a highly talented player, helping ensure they regenerate their lists.

Despite Brisbane wanting to retain its talent, it is a difficult pitch to Marshall given Hugh McCluggage, Cam Rayner, the Ashcroft brothers, Dunkley and Zac Bailey occupy the midfield slots.

Dual Brownlow Medallist Lachie Neale is expected to join Collingwood as a free agent, but his departure won't necessarily ease the burden of dominant midfielders for Fagan.

Bailey has yet to confirm his free agency decision, with Adelaide looming large as a suitor, especially given the strong offer tabled to the midfielder-forward.

Marshall played 11 games in his debut season but has only added two this year.

He's played 29 games in the VFL across his time as a listed player at the Lions.

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