Billings talks for new Saints deal

JACK Billings has opened contract talks with St Kilda and cheekily told Josh Kelly to join him at Moorabbin next season.

While talks are in the preliminary stage, a two-year deal worth more than $1 million is the most likely outcome for the out-of-contract forward.

Billings, 21, is one of just four AFL players averaging more than 22 disposals and 2½ shots at goal a game this season. The others are Patrick Dangerfield, Dustin Martin and Dayne Zorko.

“I love the club. We’re heading back to Moorabbin, hopefully at the end of this year,” Billings said.

The No.3 draft pick was taken one selection after Kelly in 2013 and was in his ear after the Saints stunned Greater Western Sydney by 23 points in Round 7.

“It’d be nice (if Kelly came to St Kilda),” Billings said.

“I grew up playing all the rep sides with Josh, so I know him really well and his family.

‘There’s obviously a few teams chasing him, but I’d love him in the Saints’ colours next year.”

Kelly is expected to receive big offers from several clubs, including North Melbourne, Carlton and the Saints.