St Kilda head of footy Lenny Hayes does not expect to move quickly on a new deal for Alix Tauru.
It has been a tumultuous period for Tauru, who toured Gold Coast and whose name has been bandied around in player movement discussions.
Contracted until the end of next year after receiving a three-year contract as a first-round pick in 2024, there is a four-year offer on the table.
"I think for Alix, letting the dust settle on the last little period, he's obviously keen to have a really good pre-season, and I think those conversations will continue with his group once we get through trade period," Hayes said on AFL Trade Radio.
Hayes expressed confidence that despite the innuendo which has surrounded the emerging defender, he is keen to remain at RSEA Park.
"It probably raised a few eyebrows when the news initially broke, but I think there's been some really good conversations. We actually sat down and asked him, 'Is he happy at the club?'" he said.
"He is really happy and wants to stay here. He's a young, developing player and an outstanding young man, and he's excited about the future.
"Once you get through all the noise of what took place and what happened and you get to the facts of it, there have been really good conversations between myself, Alix and Ross (Lyon)."
Hayes admitted he was surprised that Tauru toured the Suns' facilities but indicated it was reflective of the industry.
St Kilda's priorities will also turn to Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera and Max Hall, who both come out of contract at the end of 2027.
Wanganeen-Milera had heavy interest from South Australian clubs last year before he penned a two-year extension, while Hall is understood to be a target of Tasmania's.
"Nas and Max Hall will be priorities going forward, and we will reach out at the right time," Hayes said.
"Every club is conscious they (Devils) are looming. Our core young group has improved, so for us it's about creating that environment where they want to stay, and their football is improving."
The Saints have confirmed Dan Butler signed an extension for next year, and have an offer in front of Ryan Byrnes.
Hayes said Jack Carroll will need to wait until the end of the trade and draft period before his future is confirmed.
