Is Melbourne forward Sam Weideman worth $650,000 a season?
The Demons have assembled one of the most exciting young playing lists in the competition, but towering forward Sam Weideman remains the only out of contract piece of the puzzle.
Melbourne
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A huge opening gambit from Sam Weideman’s management is behind protracted contract negotiations between the forward and Melbourne.
The Herald Sun understands Weideman’s management surprised the Demons when they proposed a deal in the vicinity of $650,000 a year for the 21-year-old, who falls out of contract at season’s end.
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Weideman, the No.9 draft pick in 2015, has started to show promise in his three and a bit years at AFL level.
He kicked three goals from 24 possessions and seven marks in a breakout game against Geelong in last year’s elimination final.
But the Demons’ view is that sort of coin is too much for a 24-game player with much development ahead of him. Weideman has kicked five goals in the first four rounds, while averaging 12 touches a game.
Melbourne has built one of the most talented young lists in the competition — with a host of blossoming stars recently recommitting to the club.
Weideman is the only player yet to sign, but the 195cm forward has publicly stated his desire to stay and fill the void left by departed spearhead Jesse Hogan.
The Demons, meanwhile, are among several clubs on red alert as Zak Jones weighs up his future at Sydney.
Jones, the brother of Melbourne co-captain Nathan, has long been linked with a move home but there is a feeling among clubs that he is gettable this year.
Jones’ consistent start to the season and the fact he’s been allowed to settle in the Swans’ midfield may make it hard for him to justify a move.
It’s unclear whether Melbourne will pursue the speedy midfielder, but the Demons have the money to orchestrate a deal.
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