North Melbourne veterans won’t know their future until Dustin Martin decision

NORTH Melbourne’s mega offer to prise Dustin Martin out of Richmond has put the future of at least eight key Kangaroos on hold until possibly mid October.

Scott Thompson gets a handball away under pressure from Will Langford.

NORTH Melbourne’s $10-million seven-year bid to prise Dustin Martin out of Richmond has put the future of at least eight Kangaroos, including All-Australian Scott Thompson, on hold until possibly mid October.

As the cashed-up Kangaroos await a decision from Martin, the club has told a number of its uncontracted players and free agents they won’t be in a position to discuss any potential new deals for some time.

That means the likes of Thompson, 31, and Sam Gibson, 31, will go into Saturday’s final round game against Brisbane at the Gabba without a guarantee they will receive a contact for next year.

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Thompson, an All-Australian in 2013, remains very keen to continue on next season after another solid season in defence, but his management has no offer on the table and doesn’t expect one for a period of time.

The unrestricted free agent is hopeful of getting another year’s contract, having played all but one game this year.

Others waiting on an answer on their future include Jarrad Waite, 34, restricted free agent Lachie Hansen, 29, Aaron Mullett, 25, Ben Jacobs, 25, as well as youngsters Corey Wagner, 20, and Declan Mountford, 20.

Scott Thompson is without a contract for next season. Picture: George Salpigtidis

Jarrad Waite is 34 and out of contract at the end of the season.

The decision to delay some of the decisions on the club’s veterans is in stark contrast to last year when the Kangaroos announced the departures of four players - Brent Harvey, Michael Firrito, Nick Dal Santo and Drew Petrie - a few weeks before the finals.

Waite told the Herald Sun last month: “I’m really keen to go on next year and if the club is, we’ll no doubt come to an agreement.”

“Whenever it happens, it happens. I’m not focusing on it. I also know that I’m obviously getting older, but I feel like my best footy is still contributing to the team and I feel very confident that the deal will get done.”

It is understood coach Brad Scott is open to Waite playing on next year, but the decision will be an overall list management one.

The club has informed the players they may have to wait until the end of the free agency period in mid-October before getting a final answer.