West Coast reportedly made a play for contracted Brisbane star Lachie Neale earlier this year in the hope of luring the two-time Brownlow Medal winner back to Perth.
Neale is contracted at the Lions until the end of next year and has shown no indication of wanting to part with the reigning premiers.
The former Docker had considered a move back to Western Australia in 2021 but decided to remain with Brisbane, with the hard-nosed midfielder having since taken out a second Brownlow Medal and leading the Lions to a premiership.
Neale's name has been raised as a potential trade target for Fremantle this year, however the Dockers shut down the idea of moving for the 32-year-old.
Speaking to media this week, Dockers football boss Joe Brierty put a line through any chance of a reunion.
"I think there's been a few whispers about Lachie over the journey," Brierty said.
"He's an amazing talent. We feel like our midfield is in a pretty good place at the moment. Even in the exit meetings, there's a lot of guys asking for midfield minutes.
"We feel like we're in a good place, and I'm sure Lachie and his partner and the kids are happy with where they are."
According to 9 News Perth, the Eagles had shown an interest in Neale earlier this year, however their advances were knocked back by the Brisbane gun.
"It can be revealed that the Eagles already inquired about his services," reporter Paddy Sweeney said on Friday night.
"In a bid to add experience and leadership, West Coast asked the question mid-season if the Brisbane co-captain would entertain a move back to WA.
"An advance which the 32-year-old turned down."
Luring Lachie. The latest on the future of the dual Brownlow Medallist.
And details of @WestCoastEagles bid for @AFL assistance.
@9NewsPerth @FootyonNine pic.twitter.com/zTtBYYqhVn
— Paddy Sweeney (@SweeneyPaddy9) September 12, 2025
Neale played 135 games for Fremantle across seven seasons with the club before crossing to Brisbane, winning two best and fairests in purple before departing the Dockers.
The South Australian will be eligible for free agency for the first time in his career when his contract expires at the end of next year.
West Coast have shown an interest to add experience to their engine room under Andrew McQualter, adding Jack Graham and Liam Baker to their list last year and being linked to St Kilda captain Jack Steele in 2025.
