Lobb a massive part of GWS in AFL: Mumford

GWS Giants star Shane Mumford says fellow ruckman Rory Lobb is a massive part of the AFL club's future and loves the team, despite reports he could be seeking a return home to Western Australia.

Afl.com.au reported on Thursday evening that Lobb could seek a trade at the end of the season, despite being contracted to GWS for 2017.

Lobb 23, has enjoyed a breakout year, playing every game, kicking 21 goals and notching the second-most contested marks in the competition.

News that Lobb might seek a trade came as a surprise to Mumford and Giants' general manager of football Wayne Campbell.

"He's obviously a required player at this club," Mumford said.

"He loves the joint, he loves the players here, so that's actually a little bit surprising, so we'll wait and see how that plays out.

"He's a massive part of the future at this club."

Campbell told afl.com.au he hadn't heard any whispers about Lobb wanting to return to WA.

"It certainly came as a surprise to wake up and read that. We haven't spoken to Rory or his management," Campbell said.

"Rory is a hugely valuable member of our team and he needs to focus on the West Coast Eagles, so that's what he'll be doing."

Lobb could be a target for Fremantle with the Dockers' titan Aaron Sandilands aged 33 and nearing the end of a glittering career.

West Coast might also be attracted to Lobb as a back-up to their established ruck star Nic Naitanui.

"That's up to list management and what the committee do there," Eagles assistant coach and former champion ruckman Dean Cox said in Sydney in Friday on the eve of his club's clash with GWS.

"But I think any time, if you look at quality players, if they do want to come home or come to your footy club, you do due diligence on them and go from there.

"I'm not sure what our club will do yet."