The latest butt down at the scuttle is that Josh Kelly is staying in Sydney for the next two years, as the big money and lengthy contract offer of the North Melbourne Kangaroos was not enough to lure Kelly away from a winning side to one that finished seven slots out of the top eight during the Toyota 2017 AFL Premiership competition.
Kelly, according to Fox Footy’s Gerard Whateverly reported on AFL 360 that Kelly has recommitted to the Giants for two more seasons.
North and Kelly were linked by what has been described as a “monster” offer, but it would seem as though Kelly is not ready to carry a team on his shoulders, as big money for him would inevitably lead to a weak supporting cast, as other Kangaroos might be forced out to make salary cap room.
Carlton Blues, Essendon Bombers and St. Kilda Saints also expressed interest in Kelly. As for the other 14 sides, in is a foregone conclusion that they would have taken Kelly if the opportunity arose.
“Josh Kelly is recommitting to the Giants,” Whateley said on Fox Footy’s AFL 360.The negotiations are all but complete — all the heavy lifting is done. He’s going to recommit for the next two years and all that really remains is finessing the formal announcement.
All But Complete is a phrase that has, in the past preceded a blockbuster surprise, so until all the final legalities are addressed, anything could happen.
Kelly is only 22, so he has two years to chase premiership glory with a top side, which finished fourth on the ladder this season and despite losing their finals opener to the Adelaide Crows, lives on to meet the West Coast Eagles, where they are currently listed as 15.5-point favourites. Kelly may be thinking that he can grab a flag and then see what, as a 24-year-old, what the market will bear.
Earlier reports that Kelly wanted out of Sydney in order to avoid being confused with Josh Kennedy proved unfounded. Just joshing around.
