St Kilda key forward Tim Membrey is reportedly gaining interest from rival clubs as an unrestricted free agent.
The 29-year-old is coming to the end of his three-year deal that he signed with the Saints in 2021. Membrey was offered a lifeline with St Kilda when he joined them before the 2015 season after being delisted from the Swans.
According to Riley Beveridge from AFL.com, the forward generated significant interest last season from rivals and this has continued this year as clubs hunt for a key forward.
Membrey has been a crucial player over the years for the Saints and is one of the greatest success stories after being delisted, now playing 167 games and kicking 275 goals for the Saints, in which he has been accurate in his goalkicking.
Membrey has openly expressed his battle with mental health which resulted in him withdrawing from the elimination final last year. The former Swan spent the off-season and pre-season focusing on his well-being and has had an excellent start to the 2024 season. Membrey has played all seven games for the Saints and kicked 12 goals across these matches.
The Saints have not commented on Membrey's contract situation, but it's expected talks with the forward's management will begin later in the season.
Losing the 29-year-old would be a huge loss for St Kilda but it's anticipated during this year's trade period, if Membrey has not signed on, he will be of significant interest to many rival clubs.
Collingwood, Port Adelaide and Geelong are all in need of a prominent key forward. While these clubs have viable key forwards, many are either not performing, struggling with injuries or are closing in on retirement. Membrey could be a huge boost to any side's forward line.
The key forward is a free agent for life, as under AFL rules if you have been delisted you will always be of free agency status when coming out of contract.
