The 23-year-old is nearing the end of his current contract as the current season concludes. Despite being sidelined due to injury, the Western Bulldogs have proposed a two-year contract extension to retain their talented player, Bailey Smith, potentially securing his services until 2027.
AFL journalist Cal Twomey revealed this development on Wednesday, mentioning Smith as one of several players the Bulldogs are aiming to secure with long-term deals, including highly sought-after prospect Jamarra Ugle-Hagan.
Twomey stated, “The Bulldogs have offered a two-year extension to retain Bailey Smith, ensuring his presence until the end of 2026 as he reaches free agency,” on Gettable. However, discussions on this extension might be temporarily halted due to Smith’s ACL injury, which will keep him out for the entire 2024 season.
Despite speculation about Smith’s standing within the Bulldogs, neither party has confirmed any rift. However, there’s a growing belief across the AFL that other clubs may attempt to lure him away, particularly as his current deal remains unsigned.
Clubs such as Hawthorn or Collingwood may consider surpassing the Bulldogs’ offer with their own extended contract for the dynamic 23-year-old. Smith’s exceptional performances during the 2021 finals and his impressive statistics in 2022 have established him as a top midfield talent in the league.
While the ACL injury is a setback for Smith’s career progression this season, his value in the market is expected to remain high due to his age and commitment to fitness.
Meanwhile, the Bulldogs’ focus seems to be on securing Ugle-Hagan’s signature, with rumors suggesting he could receive offers spanning over a decade from rival clubs. Additionally, Tim English and Ugle-Hagan are also yet to sign contracts beyond the current season, with speculation surrounding English’s potential return to his home state to join the West Coast Eagles.
As the Bulldogs’ management navigates contract negotiations for their star players, coach Luke Beveridge remains focused on their upcoming match against the Suns, aiming to secure their first win of the season and ease the pressure on the team.