The AFL is reportedly set to offer players a bumper 2017 pay rise in an effort to end long-running wage talks.
Newspaper reports suggest an immediate raise of 20 or 25 per cent, to be followed by incremental increases in years two to six, is part of a six-year deal set to be tabled by league chiefs.
News Corp reports the deal has yet to win the backing of the AFL Players Association, which is seeking a share of the game's broader revenues to include players.
It's understood the deal is yet to arrive at the AFLPA, which is negotiating the deal on behalf of players.
Players are seeking an improved share of revenue from both head office and clubs from Australia's most popular sport, which has seen dramatic growth in wealth over the last decade.
Unless any overall funding package increases the share of revenue that players currently receive, the deal will be rejected by players.
The AFLPA Is also seeking to include player development programs, hardship and injury funding in a deal.
The last deal between the AFL and players expired six months ago.
The AFL and AFLPA are meeting regularly to secure a deal, with both appearing content to take the time needed to strike the right agreement.
That patience might not be shared by AFL clubs, who must forecast payment into the future when it comes time to contract players.
