St Kilda has yet to table an improved deal for star defender Callum Wilkie, leaving the Western Bulldogs’ bold bid to lure him across still flickering in the background.
Despite being contracted until the end of 2027, Wilkie has emerged as the Dogs’ top target in their push to add a reliable key back.
The Bulldogs have placed a staggering four-year package worth up to $1.2 million a season in front of the 29-year-old, a jump of more than $400,000 annually on his current $750,000-a-year arrangement at the Saints. Coach Luke Beveridge even reached out to Wilkie earlier this month to pitch the move.
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Saints risk scrutiny over delay
While St Kilda has splashed heavily on recruits, including Leek Aleer, Jack Silvagni, Tom De Koning and Liam Ryan, the absence of a contract upgrade for their All-Australian defender has not gone unnoticed. Wilkie, who also claimed a club best and fairest, is widely tipped to take over the captaincy, yet remains on the same deal signed before the club’s aggressive spending spree.
Although there were moments this year when Wilkie grew unsettled with the Saints’ list direction, his strong emotional ties to the club make a switch unlikely.
The Bulldogs remain hopeful the financial gulf could sway him, but in an ideal scenario for St Kilda, Wilkie recommits on improved terms at Moorabbin.
Until then, the Dogs’ daring pursuit lingers, with the Saints under mounting pressure to secure their leader-in-waiting on a deal that reflects his standing.