Marcus Bontempelli Contract Negotiations: Key Developments in AFL

As the AFL season progresses, contract negotiations for star player Marcus Bontempelli of the Western Bulldogs have become a focal point, with significant implications for both the player and the club. Bontempelli, who has been recovering from early-season injuries and managing personal commitments, is reportedly in discussions with club officials about a new contract that could reshape the landscape of the Bulldogs' future.

The 29-year-old captain, renowned for his exceptional skills and leadership on the field, is currently in the final year of a four-year deal signed in 2021. According to Bontempelli, conversations regarding his contract have started to gain momentum. "There was a lot going on in my life early on in the season... But those conversations are definitely starting to take place," he stated in a recent interview (Cotton, 2025).

Bontempelli's potential new deal is particularly significant given recent trends in player salaries within the league. High-profile players like Tom De Koning of Carlton and Matt Rowell of the Gold Coast Suns have recently signed lucrative contracts, with offers exceeding $1.5 million per season (Fox Sports, 2025). As one of the league's premier talents, Bontempelli could command an even larger salary, further complicating the Bulldogs' salary cap management.

The Western Bulldogs are not only focused on retaining Bontempelli but are also looking to enhance their roster with other star players. Club management has expressed interest in bolstering their list with high-profile targets like Zak Butters from Port Adelaide, who is eligible for restricted free agency in 2026 (Cotton, 2025).

The Bulldogs must navigate tight salary cap constraints while also preparing for contract negotiations with emerging talents Sam Darcy, Ryley Sanders, and Joel Freijah, all of whom are expected to receive pay rises in the coming years (Cotton, 2025). As highlighted by Leigh Montagna, a former St Kilda player, the potential for significant financial offers from the incoming Tasmanian AFL team adds another layer of complexity to these negotiations, especially for young players like Sanders and Colby McKercher (Fox Footy, 2025).

In addition to Bontempelli, the Bulldogs are also actively negotiating contracts for veteran players like Tom Liberatore, who is expected to secure a one-year extension following a standout season (Cotton, 2025).

Meanwhile, other clubs, such as Essendon, are also in the midst of contract talks for their players, notably Sam Draper, who is weighing offers from multiple teams, including Brisbane and Adelaide (Cotton, 2025). The upcoming mid-July period is crucial as it coincides with the U16s National Championships on the Gold Coast, where player managers and club officials will meet to discuss contracts and player pathways for the future (Cotton, 2025).

Overall, the current phase of contract negotiations in the AFL highlights the dynamic nature of player movements and the strategic decisions clubs must make to maintain competitiveness in the league. As Bontempelli's situation unfolds, it could have lasting effects on the Western Bulldogs' aspirations for future premierships and their strategic approach in the player market.