Brisbane Lions board member Leigh Matthews says the club will be “trying their hardest” to keep restricted free agent Dan McStay, but admits big-money rival offers could tempt him to look elsewhere.
The 26-year-old has started the 2022 season strongly, playing all five games and flourishing alongside fellow key tall Joe Daniher.
McStay is currently ranked in the top 10 of all players in the competition for goal assists, highlighting just how crucial of a role he’s playing in the high-flying Lions forward unit.
He is eligible to become a restricted free agent at the end of the season, but Matthews says he was hopeful he’ll shun rival offers and re-commit to the club in the coming months.
“It so often happens that when your contract (is nearing its expiry), your form goes through the roof,” he said on Sportsday.
“He’s actually had a terrific few weeks and playing the best he’s ever played I would’ve thought.
“He was always a pretty iffy set shot at goal because of the pressure and stress. He used to get nervous, but after 50 games under the belt he’s a lot more comfortable player.
“He’s been a good player and taken a lot of contested marks, the Lions will be trying their hardest to keep him. I can say confidently he’s happy at the Lions but if the money is big enough, that sometimes can tempt any player.”
Brisbane is currently preparing to take on crosstown rivals Gold Coast in the Q-clash on Sunday as they look to make it five wins from the first six rounds of the season.