Clayton Oliver has been told by Melbourne Demons to find a new club, with the midfielder taking to social media to express his feelings.
What happened?
Oliver, 28, was reportedly told on Wednesday evening that he had a meeting with the club at 10am on Thursday, where he was informed that the club would be happy for him to explore his options elsewhere.
The meeting with new coach Steven King and Demons officials was brief, with Oliver being told he could play VFL next season if he chooses to stay.
Why it matters for Clayton Oliver
The decision has shocked Oliver, who was looking forward to playing with the side, where he's contracted for the next five years at a rumoured $1million a season.
Oliver has taken to social media to post a photo of himself playing with the club's VFL side, the Casey Demons, tagging Seven reporter Mitch Cleary and captioning the photo: 'Actually doesn't look too bad on me'.
What comes next?
The shock news comes as Melbourne teammate Christian Petracca has requested a trade from the club, with Gold Coast and Adelaide Crows showing interest in the 2021 premiership Demon and Norm Smith medallist.
Petracca, 29, has flown to Adelaide to meet with the Crows, and his departure could have a significant impact on the Demons' lineup.
Oliver's future with the club is now uncertain, with the midfielder having won four Melbourne best and fairest awards.
The Demons' decision to tell Oliver to find a new club has raised questions about the team's direction and leadership.
As the trade period approaches, the Demons will be looking to make some key decisions about their lineup and personnel.
Oliver's situation will be closely watched, with the midfielder's next move likely to have a significant impact on the team's fortunes.
The 2021 season was a successful one for the Demons, with the team winning the premiership and Petracca taking out the Norm Smith medal.
But with the departure of key players and the arrival of new coach Steven King, the team's dynamics are set to change.
Oliver's contract is a significant one, with the midfielder set to earn $1million a season for the next five years.
The Demons will be looking to get value for their investment, but Oliver's desire to play for the team may be waning.
The situation is complex, with many factors at play, and the outcome is far from certain.