According to the Herald Sun’s Lauren Wood, Collingwood Scott Pendlebury is keen to extend his decorated career into 2027, even though the club has not yet tabled a new deal as rival clubs circle the games record holder. Pendlebury turns 39 in January, and his uncertain future has prompted Gold Coast and Essendon to closely monitor his playing status.
Rival Clubs Monitor Pendlebury’s Future
According to Lauren Wood speaking on Fox Footy’s Midweek Tackle, Gold Coast remains keen to sustain its interest in the veteran midfielder. An industry source also told the program that Essendon could potentially go very hard at securing Scott Pendlebury for the coming seasons.
Despite outside interest, fellow Herald Sun reporter Glenn McFarlane expects Collingwood to eventually table a new playing deal for what would mark a 22nd AFL season. McFarlane noted that the player wants to finish his career at Collingwood and is not certain to step straight into coaching.
Did you know? Scott Pendlebury has been heavily managed by Collingwood during the current season, making 15 senior appearances alongside out-of-contract veteran teammates Steele Sidebottom, Jeremy Howe, and Tim Membrey.
Fremantle Captain Alex Pearce Rejects Tasmania Interest
According to Herald Sun reporter Jon Ralph on Fox Footy’s Midweek Tackle, Fremantle captain Alex Pearce has told his club he has no interest in joining the Tasmania Devils. Pearce, who hails originally from Tasmania, had been linked to the 19th franchise as a potential inaugural captain ahead of the team’s AFL entry in 2028.
Due to become a free agent next year when he turns 32, Pearce is keen to extend his contract with the Dockers. Jon Ralph reported that Pearce shut down the speculation firmly, making it clear to Fremantle that he wants to be a one-club player and chase a premiership.
Challenges for the Tasmania Devils in Player Recruitment
According to Jon Ralph, securing A-grade talent remains a significant challenge for the Tasmania Devils. High-profile young players such as North Melbourne’s Finn O’Sullivan and Essendon’s Nate Caddy recently signed contract extensions without holding meetings with the expansion side.
Ralph noted that while Tasmania holds a $5 million sign-on bonus and extra draft selections, substantial player earnings across the existing AFL landscape make the financial gap less persuasive for established stars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scott Pendlebury retiring?
According to reporting from the Herald Sun, Scott Pendlebury wants to play on next year and is prepared to extend his career into 2027, though Collingwood has not yet tabled a formal contract offer.
Will Alex Pearce join the Tasmania Devils?
No. According to Jon Ralph, Alex Pearce has informed Fremantle that he wants to remain a one-club player and has no interest in joining the expansion team.
Why is player recruitment challenging for Tasmania?
According to industry insights reported on Fox Footy, high existing player salaries across the AFL mean that expansion sign-on bonuses and financial incentives do not always create a life-changing gap for top-tier talent.
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