James Aish would love to spurn an old mate's interest in him and stay with Collingwood.

But after a "whirlwind" few days he has landed in Perth open to joining new Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir's revolution.

In the video above: Aish linked to Freo

The Magpies' salary cap squeeze has left Aish unsure of his future despite being contracted for 2020.

A move to the Dockers would shore up the next phase of his AFL career with a three-year deal, with Longmuir's proposal not unappealing to the 23-year-old.

Longmuir and Aish had a close relationship during the first-time senior coach's time as Collingwood's backline coach.

"It's fair to say he's probably had a fair hand in it," Aish said in Perth.

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"We got along really well and he backed me as a player so I guess it largely came from that.

"Last few days have been a whirlwind, came from nowhere a little bit but it'll be cool to have a look at it."

Aish hasn't played more than 15 games in a single season for the Pies but despite consistent injuries, he has featured in five finals – including the 2018 grand final – over the past two years.

He expects to be utilised in defence for Fremantle should he join the club but Ed Langdon's departure and Brad Hill's looming exit could open up opportunities on the wing.

The pace with which a possible move away from the Pies hit Aish, however, and the decision has left him torn.

"I'd still love to stay at Collingwood if that was to happen as well, I'm really happy there," he said.

Justin Longmuir has been tasked with rejuvenating Fremantle after Ross Lyon's exit. Credit: Getty

"I haven't even made the call yet properly so it's hard to get too excited either way but it'll be hard to leave Collingwood, I love the club.

"We're in a great spot at the moment but Freo would open up new opportunities as well. Both would be great and exciting."

Aish has some friends in Perth but acknowledges joining the Dockers would be a significant change in his life off the field.