Industry sources suggested that Suckling, who turns 27 in late July, would want — and suitors would certainly offer — a three-year deal.

The Lions have been aggressive in the out-of-contract market, particularly in their pursuit of Dixon, who is out of contract but not a free agent and would almost certainly have to be traded if he left the Suns. But, contrary to speculation, the Lions are not a serious suitor for Carlton's Lachie Henderson, who is a key target for Geelong and has put off contract talks. The Blues want to retain Henderson, but are aware that he could seek a trade, with Geelong the frontrunner if he leaves (he is from nearby Birregurra).

The Lions have acknowledged that they are likely to lose out of contract youngster James Aish, who has been linked to Collingwood, Carlton and the Adelaide clubs. Although Aish is a South Australian, the young midfielder is amenable to leaving Brisbane and moving to Melbourne.

Suckling, one of the game's most penetrating left foot kicks, played in the Hawks' 2014 premiership side, after missing the 2013 flag as a result of a knee reconstruction.

A popular member of the Hawthorn side, the defender returned from an ill-timed knee injury in round 22 last season to perform well in the preliminary and grand finals. Suckling, recruited in 2007 from Wagga Tigers in NSW where fellow Hawk Isaac Smith was a teammate, has played all 11 games for the Hawks this year for a total of 88, averaging 21.5 disposals in 2015. He ranked first at Hawthorn last year for rebounds from the defensive 50m.