Kelly contract key for Giants says teammate

AFL: Devon Smith has taken a cheeky swipe at his in-demand teammate, saying he can't negotiate another contract with the Greater Western Sydney Giants until Josh Kelly has decided upon his own future.

Kelly has been linked with several Victorian-based clubs, including St Kilda and Carlton.

Josh Kelly of the Giants (right) is seen in action during the Round 7 AFL match between the St Kilda Saints and the Greater Western Sydney (GWS) Giants at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne, Friday, May 5, 2017. (AAP Image/Julian Smith) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY — Josh Kelly of the Giants (right) has attracted the interest of several rival clubs, including North Melbourne. JULIAN SMITH

North Melbourne, where Kelly's father played 61 games, is interested in the talented midfielder with reports they have tabled a nine-year deal worth $9 million.

Smith is uncontracted beyond 2017 and like Kelly is originally from Victoria.

"Hopefully the manager and club are getting closer to a deal,” Smith said on Fox Sports News' AFL Today.

"I think there are a few boys that get spoken about a lot like Joshy Kelly ... hopefully there are a few rations left for us.”

With Smith's manager overseas on his honeymoon, the crafty small forward conceded he was unsure how his contract negotiations were travelling.

"Hopefully it's all positive talk,” he said.

"Obviously it's all been about big chook Kelly and I think he's enjoying it at the moment I think.

"Everyone's carrying his bags around and throwing a few gold coins in. The charity for Josh continues to grow.”