Injured Greater Western Sydney forward Jonathon Patton has been linked with a move back home to Victoria, with Hawthorn reportedly interested in his services.
According to AFL.com.au, the Hawks have identified Patton as a successor to former captain Jarryd Roughead, who is entering the twilight of his playing career at 32 years of age.
Patton underwent his third knee reconstruction after suffering an ACL injury last season, and is on track to return after the bye period this year.
The key forward is out of contract at the end of next season, but clubs - including Hawthorn - are keeping a close eye on his situation.
GWS let Dylan Shiel head to Essendon during the most recent off-season, 12 months before his deal was set to expire in Sydney.
The Hawks are set to have enough salary cap space to fit Patton into their list at season's end, which can't be said for some other Victorian sides.
After missing out on Tom Lynch in October, Hawthorn look set to try their hand once more at bringing a key forward through their doors.
The Hawks are also no strangers to recruiting players with injury history, with both Tom Scully and Jaeger O'Meara seemingly turning corners at Hawthorn.
Patton has played 89 games for the Giants, and has booted 130 goals.
