St Kilda Rules Out Pursuit of Unrestricted Free Agent Lachie Neale

St Kilda coach Ross Lyon stated on Saturday that the club would not pursue Brisbane's unrestricted free agent Lachie Neale. Lyon cited the club's young midfield and existing commitments as the reason for the decision. The club has expressed confidence in players including 24-year-old Max Hall, 23-year-old Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, 21-year-old Hugo Garcia, and 20-year-old Darcy Wilson.

Wilson, who is out of contract, has produced consistent performances this season after playing in the VFL in 2025.

Kilda secured Cooper Sharman earlier this season and is on track to extend Alex Dodson. The club previously paid a $2 million-a-season contract to retain Wanganeen-Milera until the end of 2027. The club also pursued Tom De Koning and Jack Silvagni as free agents and traded in Sam Flanders and Liam Ryan.

These moves have placed pressure on the salary cap ahead of negotiations for several young midfielders beyond 2027.

Walter has agreed to remain with the Suns for three more seasons after rejecting an offer from Essendon. The Suns are attempting to retain Ben King, a restricted free agent, while Hawthorn has expressed interest. Carlton is seeking a tall forward, with Sydney's Joel Amartey listed as an unrestricted free agent.

Lions midfielder Sam Marshall has attracted attention from St Kilda during VFL matches. The 20-year-old has played two senior matches this season after being a premiership player last year.