A breakdown in communication between Geelong and Jimmy Bartel has the Brownlow Medallist wondering whether his services are required for next season.
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Despite the fact the 2007 Brownlow medallist has triggered a clause in his contract to play on next season, Fairfax Media understands there has been little contact between between club and player since Geelong's preliminary final exit.
It comes amid revelations that the 32-year-old's initial exit meeting was strangely rescheduled to a later date.
Whilst the contract clause for 2017 has been triggered, the fact that the club is unable to confirm that he'll be playing next year has created fresh doubts about his future.
The Cats legend has played 305 games, has twice made the All-Australian team and has a Norm Smith medal to go with his Brownlow.
It emerged late in the season that Bartel may have to play a significant part of the 2017 season in the VFL if he agreed to play on, a revelation that caused tension between both parties.
Bartel has an option of playing on next season after 22 games this year, but the club is aware that the veteran will be 33 by the start of next season.
This time 12 months ago, the Cats farewelled Steve Johnson, James Kelly and Matthew Stokes, all three of whom went on to play for other clubs.
At the end of the 2013 season, Paul Chapman was told his services were no longer required.
He went on to play two more seasons at Essendon.
After wiping away tears while walking off the MCG for the last time, star defender Corey Enright announced his retirement.
It's understood that Bartel remains uncommitted to playing next year and wants to see the direction the club wants to take its list first.
The Cats remain in an interesting stage of their list development, which they are attempting to address during the current trade period.
Josh Caddy has been targeted by Richmond as a straight swap for Brett Deledio, while Carlton's Zach Tuohy has told the Blues that he too would like to be traded to the Cattery.
Steve Motlop remains a major stumbling block for the Cats, with no clubs showing any interest for the inconsistent start who's on more than $600 000 next year.
Given that the Cats' preliminary final loss to Sydney and Bartel's consequential rescheduled exit meeting was three weeks ago, it raises questions as to why the club has not yet told Bartel whether he's a required player or not.
