Carlton star Tom De Koning has officially told the Blues he intends to sign with St Kilda as a restricted free agent.
De Koning was selected by the Blues with pick 30 in the 2017 draft and has played 100 games for the Navy Blues.
The decision made by De Koning was expected, with Carlton saying the contract offer was too big for the Blues to match.
Carlton's Head of List Management, Nick Austin, said in a statement that they were disappointed to lose him but praised the professionalism of the 26-year-old and his management.
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“While we would have obviously loved to have retained Tom, the contract offer that we understand he has been presented with is not one we are prepared to match,” Austin said.
“Ultimately, the best interests of the football club come first and remains at the centre of every decision we make in regards to our list management.
“Tom and his management have been nothing but professional throughout this process, and while it is disappointing to see Tom depart, we will now look to maximise the flexibility that now exists within our playing list as we move into the off-season period.”
St Kilda's executive general manager of football, David Misson, said the Saints were excited by De Koning's decision.
“We’re very pleased that Tom has nominated St Kilda as the club where he wishes to continue his career.
“As Tom is a restricted free agent, Carlton will have the opportunity to match our offer once formally submitted. That is part of the process and something we are fully respectful of."
Carlton are not expected to match St Kilda's offer to De Koning and will recieve compensation from the AFL, expected to be a first round pick.
De Koning joins Blues teammate Jack Silvani in leaving Carlton during the free agency and trade period.