Essendon key forward Joe Daniher has reportedly nominated Brisbane as his preferred choice of club as he again seeks a move away form Tullamarine.

Daniher was at the centre of negotiations last year when angling for a move to the Swans, though a deal couldn’t be done and he remained at the Bombers.

According to several reports, the 26-year-old has now made up his mind regarding his future and has informed Essendon of his wish to explore his free agency options.

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“We put forward a contract offer to Joe, but he has expressed his strong desire to live away from Melbourne,” Essendon list manager Adrian Dodoro said.

“We understand that free agency is part of our industry and he has a right to explore his options.”

Daniher has played just 15 games in the past three seasons as he has battled groin injuries.

He played four of the club’s final five games in 2020, perhaps a positive sign that he is finally on top of the problems with his body.

The Lions can point to Lincoln McCarthy and Grant Birchall as success stories of players who have rejuvenated their careers at the club after suffering injury dramas elsewhere.

If they can land the tall left-footer, he will join Eric Hipwood and Dan McStay in a formidable, if not enigmatic, key forward group.

Daniher’s status as a restricted free agent means Essendon can match any contract offer he receives, potentially forcing a trade or the player to the pre-season draft.

Bombers list manager Adrian Dodoro is notorious for driving a hard bargain and may have his eye on one of their two first-round picks in the upcoming draft.

It’s been a disappointing two days for Essendon fans after dashing backman Adam Saad confirmed his wish to leave the club on Tuesday.

Saad, 26, has nominated rivals Carlton as his preferred destination, despite Bombers skipper Dyson Heppell’s best efforts to convince him to stay at the club.