Key-position Western Bulldogs duo Tim English and Aaron Naughton are reportedly slated to secure million-dollar figures on their next contracts.
The star pair, both hailing from Western Australia, are being tipped to benefit from the impending finalisation of the AFL's new Collective Bargaining Agreement.
The 25-year-old English and 23-year-old Naughton will each eventually pen new contracts that will commence from the 2025 season, however, whether that's still with the Western Bulldogs or elsewhere is a separate conversation.
English enters restricted free agency next season, while Naughton will be a non-free agent, however, multiple clubs are reported to be circling the in-demand duo.
Fox Footy's Jon Ralph believes the Sydney Swans and West Coast Eagles have both asked Naughton to consider breaking his contract at Footscray, with additional clubs presumably preparing to throw their hats in the ring.
Andrew McDougall, the manager of both players, has made clear the intentions of his clients to hold off contract talks until the end of this season, given the prevalence of the AFL's new CBA.
Speaking prior to the Bulldogs' Friday night clash defeat to Collingwood, Ralph detailed the duo's satisfaction living in Victoria but added the fact that money could become an issue in retaining English and Naughton.
"They're both former housemates, they've both bought houses in Port Melbourne, they're very happy in Victoria but the price is going to be the issue," Ralph said.
"I know it's insane money, it's just going to be the new standard."
The Bulldogs are understandably eager to cement the long-term futures of the pair of big men, with English increasingly likely to be named this year's All-Australian ruckman, while Naughton has become one of the league's most established marking forwards.
English and Naughton's spots in coach Luke Beveridge's side are cemented, and neither are reported to be dissatisfied with their status among the Bulldogs' playing group, however, speculation will persist until pen is put to paper.
Having claimed nine wins from 17 matches, the Bulldogs sit seventh on the ladder, just one game outside the top four.
Their next six matches (Sydney, Essendon, GWS, Richmond, Hawthorn, and West Coast) would all be seen as winnable, with the club's double-chance hopes still alive.
The Dogs' premiership hopes rest on the form of players such as English and Naughton, and they'll be looking to respond to Friday night's loss with a Round 18 victory at the SCG this week against the Swans to resume momentum heading into the finals.
