If the Western Bulldogs miss out on superstar free agent Zak Butters, they will quickly turn their attention to Gold Coast midfielder Matt Rowell.
The Bulldogs, along with Geelong, are the leading candidates to sign Butters as he weighs up his departure from Port Adelaide.
The star midfielder has confirmed he will leave Alberton, and is assessing the two finals contenders as a potential home. He supported the Bulldogs as a junior, and he grew up in Bacchus Marsh (western Victoria).
But if Butters opts against joining Luke Beveridge and his charges, the Bulldogs will pursue Rowell, who was previously chased by the club, according to the Herald Sun.
The Suns midfielder penned a two-year extension in 2025 as a host of Victorian sides hunted his signature.
It's understood Rowell was impressed by Beveridge during those meetings.
The reigning Brownlow Medallist is set to become a free agent at the end of next year, and if he intends to return to Victoria, Gold Coast could consider a trade to maximise their return.
In the current climate, Rowell would be worth two or three first-round selections given his stardom and potential in the game.
If he were to exercise his free agency rights next year, the Suns have the right to match the bid.
Adelaide free agent Jordon Butts is also on the agenda for the club, while Arthur Jones and Buku Khamis are set to re-sign.
The Bulldogs will look to add to their midfield, following the retirement of Tom Liberatore, while veteran Adam Treloar is tipped to exit the club as well.
The club also farewelled Oskar Baker, Harvey Gallagher, Lachlan Smith and Zac Walker, who were informed by Western Bulldogs decision-makers that their services are no longer required.
