Hawthorn best and fairest winner 'up for grabs' with club yet to offer new contract

Hawthorn is yet to offer key midfielder James Worpel a contract, which could see the former best and fairest winner move on at season's end.

Worpel has missed since Opening Round with a syndesmosis injury and is out of contract at the end of 2024, but is coming off successive strong seasons for the Hawks.

However, according to 9News Melbourne's chief sports reporter Tom Morris, Hawthorn has its sights set on others in the trade period, which could make Worpel available.

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"James Worpel is up for grabs and that is because Hawthorn is yet to offer a deal to the 2019 best and fairest, who isn't far off returning from that ankle injury," Morris said.

"This inaction has Victorian clubs on high alert, with St Kilda and Melbourne having preliminary interest in the 26-year-old."

Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell met with West Coast captain Oscar Allen in the club's bye week, while they have also been linked to the likes of Harley Reid and Zak Butters.

It comes after another big summer of deals for the Hawks, who brought in defenders Tom Barrass and Josh Battle in 2024.

Morris also reports that ruckman Lloyd Meek is close to recommitting to a long-term deal with the Hawks.

"The Hawks and Lloyd Meek's management are working towards a fresh four-year deal for the out of contract player."

"All parties expect he will eventually recommit."