AFL 2022: GWS reveals it held talks with Dustin Martin over move to NSW

As he prepares to make his much-anticipated return, an interstate club has revealed it held talks with superstar Dustin Martin over his AFL future.

Dustin Martin is close to playing for the Tigers for the first time since round one. Photo: Getty Images

AFL superstar Dustin Martin switched footy codes to seek help and inspiration from NRL legend and boxer Paul Gallen to prepare for his emotion-charged comeback.

The three-time Norm Smith medallist has spent a month secretly training alongside Gallen at his Cronulla gym and on the Wanda sand hills in Sydney’s south that are notoriously brutal on even the fittest professional athletes.

Gallen, arguably Australia’s toughest sportsman, declined to comment when asked about his recent association with the Richmond champion.

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“I gave Dusty my word that I wouldn’t say anything if the media found out about it,” Gallen said, “and I have to respect that.”

Any doubts about Martin’s fitness as he prepares for a much anticipated comeback in the blockbuster clash with traditional rival Collingwood at the MCG next weekend have been quickly dispelled.

One onlooker told News Corp: “He’s been working his butt off and looks incredibly fit. Gal was really impressed and loved having him around.”

Martin has missed six matches since he took personal leave to deal with the anguish and pain of his father’s death in New Zealand late last year.

He came to Sydney as a broken man but has now returned to Melbourne in a much better head space according to those closest to the champion midfielder.

Dustin Martin is primed to return to football.

Martin had previously met Gallen at a fight night in Sydney and the pair now share a strong bond.

He has also previously worked out with another NRL superstar, Sonny Bill Williams.

The big question mark now is Martin’s long-term future at Richmond.

Martin’s seven-year contract with the Tigers expires at the end of 2024, but a move interstate on compassionate grounds is not out of the question.

He enjoys Sydney’s lifestyle and being more out of the spotlight in the Harbour City.

His agent Ralph Carr told News Corp last year: “Dusty loves Sydney. He’s there a lot and he originally lived in Camden with his dad. You’ve got to live there to really know how good it is.”

Paul Gallen helped keep Dustin Martin in shape during his time away from Richmond.

Obviously there would be enormous interest from Sydney and Greater Western Sydney, especially at the Swans with their million-dollar man Lance Franklin well into the home straight of his career.

Both clubs are quietly monitoring the situation behind the scenes.

The GWS giants have struggled to make a genuine impact in Sydney with their crowds and TV ratings way below what the AFL may have hoped for.

Martin’s profile and freakish talent could change all that and finally get bums on seats.

Giants CEO David Matthews told News Corp: “Lifestyle has increasingly become one of the most important components for athletes when considering their playing career, which is why Sydney is such an attractive option.

“Dustin Martin is a genuine superstar of our game and Australian sport more broadly and that’s why he generates as much interest and excitement as he does.”

“We spoke to him a number of years ago given his Campbelltown background.”

Meanwhile Gallen has his next fight in Newcastle on May 11 for the Australasian heavyweight title against Melbourne fighter Kris Terzievski.