North Melbourne's reported interest in signing a Geelong premiership defender is expected to fall short, with the Cats free agent in line to turn his back on keen rival clubs and recommit at Kardinia Park.
Key defender Jack Henry is one of 11 Geelong players eligible for free agency this year - ten of whom featured in the club's 2022 premiership team.
Henry, a local Geelong product, has shaken off a foot injury that significantly hampered his 2023 campaign, playing all six games this year in his second season alongside young brother and ex-Collingwood forward Ollie Henry.
While viewed as an unlikely Cat to depart the club given his local ties and brotherly combination,ย The Ageย has revealed North Melbourne are among the rival clubs that have pushed for Henry's signature this year.
The Roos are said to be joined by Hawthorn and St Kilda in showing an interest in Henry's services, however the 25-year-old is nearing the final touches on a new contract with the Cats.
The publication's report suggests Henry's new deal at the Cattery would be at least four years in length, with Geelong awaiting a response from Henry's management.
Henry's agent Tom McConville told Gettable this week that both parties are looking to finalise an agreement soon.
"Talks are ongoing there and it looks pretty positive," McConville said of his client.
"Jack obviously loves Geelong and Geelong rates Jack pretty highly as well in their system. Talks are ongoing, but it's moving in the right direction.
"I'd say (he's likely to stay) at this point. We're just finalising a few finishing pieces, but it should be good."
The Kangaroos' interest in Henry comes as the Arden Street club seeks to bolster its rearguard, having look toward cheaper options Toby Pink and Bigoa Nyuon to help lead Alastair Clarkson's key defensive ranks.
Currently without Griffin Logue and Kallan Dawson through injury, the Roos' backline has been a clear weakness for Clarkson to start the season.
North Melbourne do have first-round draftee Wil Dawson waiting in the wings, however more mature key defensive options loom as an area of focus for the club's list planning.
Joining Henry in being unsigned beyond this year are teammate Jake Kolodjashnij, St Kilda pair Josh Battle and Dougal Howard, GWS tall Nick Haynes and Hawks pair Jack Scrimshaw and Denver Grainger-Barras.
