The Demons had hoped to make Clark part of a trade with Magpie Heritier Lumumba, but that option has almost certainly been closed off. Geelong general football manager Neil Balme told Fairfax Media - which revealed on Tuesday that Geelong had been nominated by Clark - that the Cats were pleased that Clark "wants to come to Geelong" and that the Cats had to speak to Melbourne "and get something organised." Clark was not seeking a huge money offer from either Geelong or Collingwood, with the Cats likely to offer a two year contract, with incentives. Geelong coach Chris Scott has a relationship with Clark based on their playing days at Brisbane and the Cats believe this was an important factor in persuading Clark to join them. Clark's choice was unusual in that it health considerations - where he would be best suited, with Geelong arguing that its provincial surrounds and low key environment would fit him better than Collingwood.

The Cats have acknowledged the inherent risks in recruiting Clark, given his foot injury and depression that prompted his retirement. Clark played only 15 games in three seasons at Melbourne. He said there was some risk surrounding the signing, due to Clark's history, but the Cats were "confident" they could mitigate it. "He's had a crook foot and obviously he's had his other issues but we're relatively confident he'll be OK," he said. "Obviously we've got to protect that a little bit but I think it will be a good deal for him as well." Balme was asked on Trade Radio whether a straight swap was on the cards. He that at this stage "everything's on the table to a degree" but a player-for-player swap was doubtful. Travis Varcoe has been speculated as potential swap, but the Cats have not progressed talks that far.

"Whilst we're not going to burn anyone, if that is attractive to Melbourne and it works for the player they're talking about, I mean, anything could happen really ... I doubt that that could happen but it's not impossible." The Cats are also hoping to secure another key position Demon in free agent James Frawley, who still has not informed Melbourne of his intentions. Geelong was still awaiting news on Frawley late on Tuesday. The Cats have long been at the head of the Frawley queue, with Hawthorn the major competitor. Geelong believes it can fit both Demons under its salary cap, since Clark will not necessarily seek a huge wage. Clark, should he manage a successful return, would redress two weaknesses for Geelong – the second tall forward who supports Tom Hawkins and the ruck.

Clark is a former teammate of Geelong coach Chris Scott from their days at Brisbane. The decision of Clark is a blow for the Magpies, who were informed of Clark's choice on Tuesday. Melbourne already has a strong hand in the draft with pick two and the strong chance of getting pick three as compensation for Frawley. The 26-year-old initially justified his lucrative move to Melbourne from Brisbane by kicking 29 goals in the first half of 2011, before he was struck down by injury. In 2012 he managed only four matches, for a total of 15 in two seasons. Clark's retirement earlier this year featured a mutual agreement to cancel the last year of his contract with Melbourne. Loading