Essendon coach Brad Scott was caught by "surprise" when learning of star Zach Merrett's meeting with Hawthorn mentor Sam Mitchell.

Merrett is the latest player to explore his future at rival clubs, albeit under contract for another two years.

It is understood that Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs have also been in contact.

The Bombers' skipper is becoming impatient with the lack of success at the Hangar, which hasn't seen a win in September since 2004, while the absence of finals action is also playing a part.

Scott, speaking on AFL360, spoke to Merrett's catch-up with Mitchell, and reiterated the Essendon board's stance, saying they "will not be trading the skipper under any circumstances".

"I speak to Zach daily, who was over at my house a couple of days ago having dinner, so I'm well aware of Zach's position," Scott said.

"He's very excited about the young talent on our list, and has got full confidence in them. But he's as hungry for success as any player that I've ever encountered, and he's a man in a rush. He's 29 years old, he's concerned 'will our young talent mature enough in time for him to enjoy that success'.

"But the reality is that this time last year, we recommitted to Zach. We felt he was underpaid for someone who was performing at such a high level. So, for the second time in three years, we changed his remuneration to reflect his brilliant performance and his terrific leadership.

"So, we committed to him and he committed to us. And, like our CEO, who moved interstate and committed to the club, I came and made a commitment to the club. I intend to see my commitment through, and I expect our captain to do the same.

"But the thing I've learned about success is that it's fantastic when you get it, but it's the journey and the effort and the blood, sweat and tears that you put into the process to get the success. That's the reward, not the outcome."

Scott also aimed at Mitchell for meeting a rival player, which is the second confirmed occurrence this year.

Hawthorn met with Eagles co-captain Oscar Allen, who, despite the club's advances, will move to Brisbane as a free agent.

"The world is changing," Scott said.

"This is the second club captain Sam Mitchell has met with in one year. There'd be a time and a place which I'd be pretty disappointed, but the reality is now, the gloves are off, and all's fair in love and war.

"That's the path (Hawthorn) wants to go down, then we'll play that game too."

On top of Merrett's exploration into his future, the Bombers will lose Sam Draper to free agency, who is likely to join Brisbane, while Jordan Ridley, who is under contract, also wants to head north.

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