Suggestions Chad Wingard is leaning towards staying at Port Adelaide next year seem premature with the club admitting the star forward hasn’t made any sort of commitment to the Power.
Wingard has been exploring his options and is believed to have a sizable offer on the table from the Western Bulldogs.
However, earlier this week reports said he would most likely see out the last year of his contract at Alberton, and possibly extend it.
On Thursday morning Port Adelaide’s general manager of football, Chris Davies, admitted the club had not received any word from Wingard as to what his decision would be.
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“No, he hasn't given us that guarantee that he wants to play at Port next year,” Davies told AFL Trade Radio.
“He also hasn't said he wants to leave though, so it's Chad's prerogative.
“Until Chad suggests he doesn't want to be at our footy club, there is no point discussing potential trade outcomes.
“We plan for him to stay in 2019. We're not going to force him out.”
THE CHAD!
— AFL (@AFL) July 15, 2018
Just another moment of wizardry from Chad Wingard. #AFLFreoPower pic.twitter.com/chElu6tRpm
Port defender Jack Hombsch has interest from Gold Coast after being told by coach Ken Hinkley his opportunities would be limited if he remained at the Power next year.
“The Suns have moved to seek 25-year-old Hombsch to do far more than just cover the potential loss of co-captain Steven May,” News Corps' Michelangelo Rucci wrote on Thursday.
“Hombsch, who already has experienced the challenges of setting up a new team’s culture with Greater Western Sydney in 2011-12, also offers the Suns much-needed sound character and leadership in the clubhouse.
“Small forward Jake Neade is holding attention from Collingwood and North Melbourne."