Geelong keen to lock up top teen

GEELONG remains hopeful of re-signing second-year defender Jake Kolodjashnij as rivals circle the developing full-back.

The flourishing Tasmanian has been named in the Cats’ VFL team’s best players in five of his seven senior games this season under the tutelage of triple-premiership champion defender Matthew Scarlett.

But the 19-year-old had been unable to break into the senior team’s established back line, led by Harry Taylor and Tom Lonergan, before last night’s clash against Port Adelaide.

The Cats are in talks with Kolodjashnij in a bid to lock away the key stopper beyond this season. He finished fourth in the VFL best and fairest in his first season, last year.

The second-year Cat has been linked to Gold Coast, where his twin brother, Kade, has played 28 games, and Brisbane, which is looking for more key defensive support.

It is understood the 193cm backman wants to stay at the Cattery but could yet be tempted to weigh up rival interest if Geelong is able to secure Carlton swingman Lachie Henderson.

Kolodjashnij is eager for more senior opportunity but the arrival of Henderson could keep the youngster down the pecking order in Geelong’s back half. The Cats are also interested in securing Adelaide superstar free agent Patrick Dangerfield and could also offer their first-round pick to the Blues in exchange for Henderson at season’s end.

Geelong veteran Jared Rivers has also been in excellent form and could play again next season, despite ongoing knee issues.

Kolodjashnij’s intercept mark numbers have doubled from an average 1.2 last year to 2.4 this season, according to Champion Data.

His spoils have also increased from 4.3 per game to 5.3 and his disposals from 12.1 to 15.

He has been one of the Cats’ VFL team’s best players over the past month.