Former Essendon skipper Brendon Goddard says Joe Daniher is AFL captaincy material amid reports the spearhead is close to signing a contract extension.
Daniher is believed to have been offered a lucrative three-year deal after reinforcing his value with an outstanding start to the season.
Fairfax Media has reported the club and Daniher's management have "all but agreed" to terms on a $2 million deal.
The 23-year-old is part of the Bombers' seven-man leadership group alongside fellow youngster Zach Merrett, and 15-season veteran Goddard believes he will continue to grow as a leader.
"He's an important part of the future and we've obviously seen the potential he has had and his highs this year," Goddard said on Wednesday.
"He's a potential leader of the footy club, too ... a real leader of the footy club with a title next to his name."
The key forward, a father-son pick in the 2012 draft, was best on ground in the Anzac Day win over Collingwood at the MCG and has booted 29 goals for the season.
Reports of Essendon's interest in Richmond star Dustin Martin last week moved Bombers coach John Worsfold to say Daniher was the future of the club.
"My keenness is on Joe Daniher. He's the No.1 priority, and we're working really hard to get Joey signed," Worsfold said.
"I'm not too interested in worrying about anyone else until we get Joey locked away."
The Bombers are also keen to lock away young midfielder Darcy Parish and veteran speedster David Zaharakis, both of whom are off-contract at year's end.
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