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Luke Dahlhaus has played his last AFL game for the Western Bulldogs, the premiership forward telling the club he will depart via free agency. The 26-year-old is an unrestricted free agent, which allows him to sign with the club of his choice when the free agency period opens on Friday, October 5. Dahlhaus had expressed a strong desire to stay with the Dogs earlier in the season, but informed them of his intention to leave on Tuesday. It is understood he is he likely to sign a long-term deal with Geelong. "The club had been in discussions with Dahlhaus and his management throughout the season about a new multi-year contract extension beyond 2018," a club statement read. "While the club is obviously disappointed an agreement could not be reached, the club maintains an obligation to be balanced in its approach across its entire playing group when making its list management decisions. "The club wishes to thank Luke for his eight years of wonderful service, including 154 games and his contribution to the club's 2016 premiership." Dahlhaus played junior football with the Geelong Falcons before he was selected by the Dogs at the 2011 rookie draft. Tom Liberatore (unrestricted), Mitch Wallis (restricted) and Jordan Roughead (restricted) are also about to hit the free agent market. It is believed Liberatore and Wallis are likely to remain at Whitten Oval, while Roughead is more likely to sign elsewhere. The Bulldogs could receive a compensatory draft pick for losing Dahlhaus depending on the size and length of contract he is offered, and also taking into account the free agents they bring into the club.
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