Geelong captain Patrick Dangerfield looks ready to play his part in potentially luring off-contract Western Bulldogs star Bailey Smith to the Cats, stating the mulleted midfielder "would look good in the hoops".
Smith is one of the biggest unsigned figures in the AFL heading into the 2024 season, with the 23-year-old likely to be in the sights of several rival clubs.
The former Pick 7 selection won't feature on-field this year following an unfortunate pre-season ACL injury that may only add to the intrigue around his future.
Smith garnered reported interest from Geelong and Hawthorn last off-season despite being contracted, with the Bulldogs standing firm on seeing out their young star's deal before likely looking to extend their partnership beyond 2024.
The Cats are likely to come calling again after a quieter off-season, with Dangerfield one name who could be a catalyst in conversations with Smith.
Dangerfield was a driving factor in Geelong's plans to lure former Gold Coast utility Jack Bowes to Kardinia Park in 2022, with the Cats skipper potentially prepared to hold down a similar role when it comes to Smith this year.
"Bailey is clearly one any club would love to have," Dangerfield told 7 News.
"The mullet would surely look beautiful in the hoops. He looks good in the Dogs jumpers but he would look good in the hoops as well."
Dangerfield's comments come after Collingwood star Josh Daicos said he and the Magpies may "try our best" to lure Smith to the reigning premiers.
While Geelong will have plenty of focus on adding in star talent later this season, the club has a plethora of internal contract calls needing to be made over the next nine months.
Dangerfield is one of 13 free agents set to enter the new season without a deal for 2025, while young former first-round picks Max Holmes and Jhye Clark are also among their crop of off-contract names.
Entering his 17th season season in the competition, Dangerfield isn't ruling out adding a few more terms to his tally, but conceded nothing is set in stone.
"Whether it's another year, a few or none at all, I'm in a really content place," he said.
"This journey, once it's done it's done and you're out into something else. There's nothing like playing professional sport.
"I'm hopeful there'll be a few more (years)."
Geelong's 2024 campaign will commence against St Kilda at a newly developed GMHBA Stadium on Saturday, March 16, while the club has a pair of practice matches against Carlton and Essendon to come before the home and away season.
