Oscar Allen: West Coast Eagles skipper says he’s ‘not sure what the future lies’ amid rival clubs’ interest

Out-of-contract West Coast co-captain Oscar Allen has refused to be drawn into speculation around his future as rival clubs ramp up their pursuit of the superstar forward.

Allen looms as one of the highest-profile free agents this year. A new Eagles deal is seemingly a significant way off, with the club and Allen’s management at an impasse despite elongated negotiations.

Reigning premiers Brisbane are one of several rival clubs interested in the 25-year-old as they look for a long-term replacement for retired forward Joe Daniher.

Allen is believed to be in discussions with the Eagles but his manager is also fielding calls from others clubs around a long-term deal for the West Perth product.

The forward is a restricted free agent, meaning the West Coast can match any offer during free agent period later this year in October.

When asked about his future, Allen expressed his desire to be at the Eagles but remained non-committal.

“I grew up in Western Australia and I’m really fortunate to be alongside Duggo (Liam Duggan) as the co-captain of the footy club,” Allen told AFL.com.au.

“I clearly love the football club and I’m sure things will get worked out.

“It’s probably something you don’t really think about when you’re playing. You’re kind of just head in the sand trying to get better and improve everyday.

“I’m not sure what the future lies, but I have really enjoyed and still enjoy my time at the footy club.

“That’s why guys have managers I suppose, so they can look after those issues for you.”

It is believed Allen’s main priority at the moment is captaining the club through the transition under new coach Andrew McQualter.

McQualter said he was confident Allen would re-sign with the Eagles.

“This is what our industry is now with free agency,” McQualter told 6PR.

“We’re really confident (he’ll stay). Oscar loves our football club, we love Oscar.

“We’re confident something will get done in the not-too-distant future.”

Allen has kicked 139 goals in 93 games, including a standout 2023 season when he booted 53 goals in 23 games to establish himself as one of the premier goalkickers in the AFL.

A knee injury restricted Allen to only 20 goals in 11 games in his first season as co-captain alongside Duggan, but a five-goal outing in a win over North Melbourne in Hobart in round 22 reminded everyone of his immense talent.