Brisbane Lions star Zac Bailey is poised to remain at the club, according to Channel 7's Caroline Wilson, despite a massive offer from Adelaide. The restricted free agent has been weighing a seven-year, $10 million deal from the Crows, but Brisbane has countered with an improved offer.
Bailey's Decision Nears
Wilson reported that Brisbane has increased its offer to around $1.2 million per year over a similar length to Adelaide's proposal. "I believe he's going to stay at Brisbane. I'm close to calling it," Wilson said. She added that the Lions expect an answer from Bailey within the next fortnight.
The Lions are also resigned to losing veteran midfielder Lachie Neale, who has met with several Victorian clubs. Neale, a dual Brownlow medallist, met with St Kilda coach Ross Lyon and football boss Lenny Hayes last Friday. Lyon coached Neale at Fremantle before his move to Brisbane in 2019.
Neale's Future Uncertain
Collingwood and Essendon are also in the race for Neale's signature. Magpies coach Craig McRae confirmed the club's interest: "Until any free agent is signed ... we've got a strategic plan around looking at who's available, and we'll just keep our hat in the ring and see how we go with that."
Neale has played 310 AFL games, including 175 for Brisbane and 135 for Fremantle. He is a six-time club best-and-fairest winner and is enjoying another stellar season that could see him contend for a third Brownlow Medal. His estranged wife Jules moved to Perth with their two children after their marriage broke down last year.
St Kilda's Chase Raises Questions
The Saints' pursuit of Neale comes less than a year after they moved on captain Jack Steele while he was under contract until 2027. Steele, three years younger than Neale, has been instrumental in Melbourne's resurgence this season. Neale acknowledged the complexity of his decision: "I love playing here (Brisbane) so I've just got to weigh up success, finance and everything that goes along with playing footy."
