Young gun Zane Duursma could take pay cut to leave North Melbourne as Demons circle

North Melbourne young gun Zane Duursma is weighing up his future, and might take a pay cut to depart the club.

Duursma was taken with pick No.4 in the 2023 draft, but has so far failed to establish himself in the Kangaroos’ best team.

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He has played 38 games across his three seasons in the AFL, including 15 this year.

The 20-year-old is out of contract and has a two-year deal on the table to stay at the Kangaroos.

But he is weighing up interest from Melbourne, who are actually offering him less money.

“This is a deal that I think if he leaves from North Melbourne to the Demons, he’ll be getting paid less than what he’d be getting paid at North Melbourne,” Channel 7 reporter Tom Morris said on The Agenda Setters.

“I think it’s two years at the Roos, two years at the Dees, but on a lot less money.

“So it’s not like he’s leaving for a greater financial gain. He might just want a fresh start in a new environment.”

7NEWS chief AFL reporter Mitch Cleary added that he was spotted having dinner this week with his brother Xavier and fellow Essendon players Vigo Visentini and Nic Martin.

“Had his exit meeting last week at North Melbourne, given he was out for the rest of the season with that shoulder injury,” Cleary said.

“Hasn’t informed them of his desire to leave, but he was spotted having a steak last night with his brother and a couple of Essendon players.

“So the Essendon Football Club had interest last year. I don’t think it’s as strong, but they are still having a look around at Zane Duursma.”

Morris added: “I think they’re asking the question, but Melbourne very much in front there.”