Ben McKay has nominated Essendon as his club of choice.
Foxfooty.com.au has confirmed McKay’s decision, which will see him reunite with former North Melbourne coach Brad Scott at a second AFL club.
As a restricted free agent, North Melbourne has the opportunity to match a rival bid.
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However, if Essendon’s contract offer is big enough to trigger band one compensation, the Roos will not match the offer and will instead receive a high-end draft pick.
That pick would be pick No.3 in this year’s draft.
North Melbourne has indicated it is willing to match an offer for McKay and force a trade if band one compensation is not triggered.
The key defender’s decision comes after 71 games with the Kangaroos since being drafted with pick No.21 in the 2015 draft.
“We understand that free agency is part of football,” North Melbourne football boss Brady Rawlings said.
“Given Ben is a restricted free agent, we have the option to match any contract that’s on offer to him.
“The official start of the free agency period is still a couple of weeks away so we’ve got time to assess our options and make a decision in the best interests of the North Melbourne Football Club.”
