Brandon bound for Gold Coast

HAVING agreed to join Gold Coast, Brandon Ellis could lleave Richmond as a dual ppremiership player.

A restricted free agent at season end, Ellis attracted the interest of several Melbourne clubs, but settled on the Suns.

It’s understood the deal is for five years at about $600,000 a season — a contract thought to be just under the threshold that would deliver the Tigers a first-round compensation pick.

There is a slim chance Ellis will stay at Punt Rd, given freeagency rules allow Richmond to match any rival offer.

But, barring any unforeseen list changes, that is extremely unlikely as Ellis seeks greater financial security.

Ellis, 26, has played 175 games in eight years at Richmond, but Saturday’s Grand Final will almost certainly be his last appearance in yellow and black.

Carlton had courted the gut-runner for much of the season before withdrawing its interest, while St Kilda and Essendon also made inquiries.

Ellis remained coy about his future yesterday.

“As I said at the start of the year, I’m just going to put it on hold until after the season’s done and after hopefully being lucky enough to play in a Grand Final,” Ellis said.

Ellis won’t be the only one out the door at Richmond next year.

Dan Butler has also met with rival clubs, including the Blues. Premiership ruckman Shaun Grigg and Maverick Weller have announced their retirements, while Connor Menadue is out of contract.