Shaun Higgins will exercise his rights as a restricted free agent, after notifying the Club of his intent on Tuesday.

Higgins' manager, Bruce Kaider of One Management Group, told AFL.com.au his client had told the Bulldogs it was in his best interests to continue his career at a new club.

Given the 26-year-old utility is a restricted free agent, the Bulldogs can keep him by matching the terms of any rival offer.

But Kaider believed the mutual respect developed between Higgins and the Bulldogs over his nine years at the Whitten Oval would ensure the club did not stand in his way.

"Shaun has informed the Bulldogs that he wishes to exercise his rights as a free agent and, more than that, would like to continue his career at another club," Kaider said.

"Shaun believes that it's in his best interests – on and off the field – to have a fresh start.

"He's got a good relationship with the Bulldogs and I think they will respect his wishes and not hold him back.

"There is a real mutual respect between both parties."

Clubs cannot make a formal offer to Higgins until the free agency period opens on Friday.

Higgins was pick No. 11 in the 2005 NAB AFL Draft and played 129 matches for the Bulldogs and kicked 128 goals.