Dustin Martin’s management set to meet Richmond officials about possible contract extension

DUSTIN Martin’s management is expected to meet Richmond on Friday to possibly start talks on a new deal for the All-Australian midfielder.

Richmond star Dustin Martin. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

DUSTIN Martin’s management is expected to meet Richmond on Friday to possibly start talks on a new deal for the All-Australian midfielder.

Speculation that several clubs were lining up to offer Martin at least $1 million a year to leave Richmond at the end of the 2017 season was rejected by two clubs on Wednesday.

Adelaide, Essendon and St Kilda were linked to Martin, but both Adelaide and St Kilda denied interest.

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The Herald Sun initially reported those clubs were lining up to try to tempt Martin from Punt Rd, who becomes a free agent at the end of the 2017 season.

Martin is contracted for the 2017 season and it would seem incredulous the Tigers would want to trade out the Jack Dyer medallist this year.

More importantly, there is no indication Martin wants out of Punt Rd and it’s possible a contract extension could be in the works.

The Tigers and Martin’s manager Ralph Carr have scheduled a meeting for Friday.

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A move to extend Martin’s contract in the middle of this season did not eventuate and it’s understood the Tigers postponed those talks.

A free agent at the end of 2017, the Tigers will want ensure they sign Martin as soon as possible.

The Bombers have been keen on Martin for several years.

Before Martin signed a two-year contract at the start of the 2015 season, the Bombers tabled an offer which would’ve paid Martin significantly more than what Richmod did.

Martin, however, chose to remain a Tiger.

The Bombers’ interest in Martin has not waned and they once again are a serious bidder for the explosive on-baller.

Dustin Martin won his first best-and-fairest and All-Australian selection this year. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

It’s believed Martin was paid between $600,00 and $650,000 this season and a new deal at Richmond would demand a pay increase.

Martin is among the top five chances for this year’s Brownlow Medal and has missed just three games since making his debut in 2010. He has played 153 games in total.

There’s no question Martin loves the Tigers, but the 25-year-old also wants to play in a premiership.

Martin is said to be disappointed at the sacking of his long-time mentor Mark Williams, but gave no indication at the best and fairest count that his future would not be at Richmond.

“‘Choco’ (Williams) – you’ve helped take my game to another level and I’m going to miss you around the club,” Martin said.

Martin has had his fair share of off-field issues, but thanked the club, including president Peggy O’Neal and chief executive Brendon Gale, for its support.

“Thanks to Peggy, Brendon and the board for sticking by me,” he said.