AFL PLAYERS' Association boss Matt Finnis has been tipped to become St Kilda's new chief executive, replacing Michael Nettlefold.

Nettlefold left the Saints in September of last year after taking on the job in 2009.

St Kilda has not confirmed the Finnis appointment but Fairfax Media says the club is "expected" to announce the highly regarded Finnis in the new role.

St Kilda did say it was in negotiations with one person.

Finnis became CEO of the AFLPA in October 2009 when Brendon Gale left the post to become Richmond CEO.

He has a legal background, having worked as a sports lawyer with Lander & Rogers. Finnis led the AFLPA through a tough collective bargaining negotiation in 2011 and was a strong voice on behalf of players during the Essendon supplements scandal in 2013.

He also led the AFLPA as it celebrated its 40th anniversary last season.

St Kilda has taken time to find a CEO to replace Michael Nettlefold who resigned in September last season.

Current AFLPA delegates from St Kilda are Leigh Montagna and Farren Ray.