‘More advanced’: Vic rival making ‘godfather offer’ to lure Bombers superstar in trade

St Kilda is reportedly readying a ‘godfather’ bid to tempt Zach Merrett away from Essendon.

The Bombers’ captain is contracted until 2027, but that hasn’t stopped Saints list boss Stephen Silvagni and Co. from targeting one of the league’s biggest fish, per Nine’s Tom Morris.

Morris said St Kilda’s currently-informal offer to Merrett would well exceed $1 million per year but added it was unlikely to provoke serious consideration from the 28-year-old.

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“I can tell you tonight St Kilda is preparing a bold bid to lure Zach Merrett out of Essendon,” Morris told 9News on Sunday night.

“There’s been no formal contract offer yet, but those close to the Bombers captain are aware of the Saints’ approach.

“I understand what’s been informally tabled equates to a godfather deal worth well over $1 million per season, which is more than what he’s on at the moment.

“Even though it’s unlikely to turn Merrett’s head, it speaks to the aggressive nature of St Kilda’s trade strategy.

“Ross Lyon is understood to be a huge fan of the four-time best and fairest, as is Brendon Goddard (St Kilda’s midfield assistant coach), who played with Merrett at Essendon.”

And while this may just sound like a team being interested in a very good player, which isn’t a shock, talks between Merrett and the Saints are “more advanced” than that according to Morris.