Luke Dahlhaus officially departs Western Bulldogs for free agency

Michael Di Lonardo

Luke Dahlhaus officially departs Western Bulldogs for free agency image

The Western Bulldogs have officially announced Luke Dahlhaus will leave the club to test his hand in free agency, with Geelong the front runners to sign the midfielder.

Dahlhaus - an unrestricted free agent - reportedly knocked back a three-year offer to remain at the kennel, enticed by a lucrative $500,000 a season deal from the Cats.

In a club statement, the Bulldogs conceded it made its best effort to retain the 26-year-old and were regretful they weren't able to secure him.

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“The club had been in discussions with Dahlhaus and his management throughout the season about a new multi-year contract extension beyond 2018,” the club wrote.

“While the club is obviously disappointed an agreement could not be reached, the club maintains an obligation to be balanced in its approach across its entire playing group when making its list management decisions.

“The club wishes to thank Luke for his eight years of wonderful service, including 154 games and his contribution to the club’s 2016 Premiership. We wish Luke well for the remainder of his career.”

The Bulldogs are likely to get a compensation pick, already taking in picks 6, 42, 59, 60 and 78 in November’s National Draft.

They are looking to bolster their draft hand in order to secure father-son prospect Rhylee West.

West is the son of club legend Scott and is rated a top 20 talent in this year's draft crop.

After a stellar season during the club's premiership year, Dahlhaus has seen a dip in form after kicking just one goal in 17 games in 2018.

He has played 154 games across eight seasons with the Dogs which included a Rising Star nomination in 2011, kicking 110 goals.

 

 

Michael Di Lonardo

Michael Di Lonardo Photo