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MELBOURNE-based AFL clubs are poised to join the race to sign disgruntled St Kilda defender Zac Dawson.
St Kilda's Zac Dawson (centre) is attracting strong interest
Getty Images PrevNextDawson, 25, has been linked with a move to Fremantle with his former Saints coach Ross Lyon.
But it appears Dawson’s passage to the Dockers will not be as smooth with clubs in his home state set to pounce in a bidding war with offers before the Saints big man declares his intended destination.
It has emerged that at least two Victorian clubs, believed to be reigning premiers Geelong and finals-hopefuls Richmond, want to explore snaring the three-time Saints grand final full-back.
Dawson is in contract dispute with the Saints after he was asked to take in the region of at least a 25 per cent pay cut on any new deal.
The former Hawthorn and Saints back man has all but declared intentions to head for another club to continue his career.
Saints officials are understood come to terms on deals for hard-nut midfielder Farren Ray, experienced all-rounder Sean Dempster, veteran Jason Blake, Brett Peake and Dean Polo.
Significantly, Dawson remains in dispute on any new Saints agreement.
He has been touted with a move west through the pre-season draft in December, but could still head to another outfit on a similar lucrative deal and selection process as the Dockers offer.
The Cats have to replace departing experienced defender Darren Milburn as well as prepare for life after the retirement of champion key back man Matthew Scarlett who has flagged plans to retire at the end of next season.
Richmond recruiters have been desperately scouring the nation for experienced and big bodied key backmen to bolster their defensive division alongside youngsters Alex Rance and Luke McGuane.