Free agent deserves a “massive pay rise”

GEELONG ball-magnet Cam Guthrie remains out of contract and eligible for unrestricted free agency at year’s end.

A key cog in Geelong’s star-studded midfield, Guthrie has elevated his game to another level coming off an All-Australian year in 2020.

The Cats’ reigning best and fairest winner continued his ultra-consistent season in Saturday’s 20-point win over North Melbourne, collecting 29 disposals and kicking two goals.

Kane Cornes is intrigued by the 28-year-old’s contract status and wonders whether Geelong’s salary cap is starting to tighten.

“Best and fairest in a side that made the Grand Final last year and an All-Australian,” Cornes told AFL Media’s The Round So Far.

“Unrestricted free agent, so let’s watch this with real interest.

“We’re up to Round 21 and their reigning best and fairest winner, who is their second-best midfielder behind Patrick Dangerfield, is out of contract.

“There’s a squeeze on because they paid (Jeremy) Cameron a whole heap of money, Dangerfield’s not cheap, (Tom) Hawkins, Joel Selwood and Tom Stewart and others aren’t either – how do they fit him in?

“Whichever way, he’s in for a massive pay rise and he deserves every cent.”

Cam’s younger brother Zach Guthrie was also impressive against the Kangaroos, finishing with a season-high 28 touches and 13 marks.

“It’s the best game I’ve seen Zach play – a career-best game. It’s a credit to him because he wasn’t selected in the team,” Cornes said.

“He was so strong in the air. I hadn’t seen that from him so far throughout his career.”

Guthrie, 23, is also coming out of contract.

– BY ALEX ZAIA/ SEN