The Labor Party has approached retired footballer Adam Goodes about the prospect of running as a candidate at the next federal election.

Fairfax Media has confirmed Northern Territory Labor Senator and Olympic gold medallist Nova Peris encouraged Goodes to consider a career in politics during a meeting earlier in the year.

Great expectations: Adam Goodes is the latest sports star approached to run for parliament. Credit:Brendan Esposito

"The approach has been made by Nova," a senior Labor source said on Wednesday night.

It is understood that no official approach has been made to the dual Brownlow medallist, but that Opposition Leader Bill Shorten is keen to talk to him.