AFL trade news 2023: Dustin Martin meets with Gold Coast coach Damien Hardwick

The Tigers think Dustin Martin will see out his career at Punt Road – but an apparent meeting on the Gold Coast has added to speculation suggesting that might not be the case.

Richmond superstar Dustin Martin and former coach Damien Hardwick have been photographed appearing to enjoy a catch-up on the Gold Coast on Thursday.

Hardwick, who stood down as Richmond coach mid-season before joining the Suns on a blockbuster six-year coaching contract only three months later, has refused to rule out attempting to lure Martin north to the Gold Coast.

Damien Hardwick meets with Dustin Martin on the Gold Coast. Picture: Channel 7

Martin and Hardwick after winning the 2020 grand final. Picture: Jono Searle/AFL Photos

The 32-year-old has one year left to run on his contract at Richmond and the Tigers are confident the three-time Norm Smith Medallist will remain at Punt Rd.

Martin chose the Gold Coast as an off-season holiday destination mere weeks after Hardwick put his feet under the desk at the Suns.

Channel 7 reported the picture of Hardwick and Martin was taken on the Gold Coast on Thursday.

A Suns spokesman told this masthead the club would not comment on the meeting.