The worst-kept secret in the AFL is over - unrestricted free agent James Frawley will leave Melbourne.
The future of Frawley, named in the 2010 All Australian side, has been up in the air since he put contract talks on hold in January.
The Demons' hopes of retaining Frawley diminished over the course of the season.
On Wednesday the 26-year-old confirmed to the club he will not be re-signing.
"During our conversation today, James expressed how tough this decision has been for him and his desire to see Melbourne continue to improve," Demons football manager Josh Mahoney said.
"Free agency presents challenges for all clubs.
"We have been planning for 2015 and beyond - with or without James - and this decision now allows us to further progress these plans with clarity."
Mahoney thanked Frawley for his nine seasons of service, calling him "a valuable contributor on and off the field".
Geelong, Hawthorn and Fremantle are considered the frontrunners for Frawley's services.
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