Geelong AFL premiership skipper Cameron Ling has warned the Cats not to jeopardise their future in pursuit of Gary Ablett.
For the second time in two years, the two-time Brownlow Medal winner has asked Gold Coast to trade him back to Geelong.
Ablett signed with the Suns ahead of the 2011 season after 192 games and two premierships with the Cats.
He is keen to return for family reasons but is contracted to Gold Coast, who have threatened to drive a hard bargain at the trade table.
"(Geelong) would like to get Gaz and you've got to give something for him ... but just don't give away the future for a bloke who is there for maybe two years," Ling said on Tuesday.
"If they can strike that balance perfectly (they'll) not give up too much, get Gary in to get some short-term benefit but also keep their long-term future strong - that's obviously the best result."
The Suns are reported to be keen on receiving a player, who the Cats will partially pay for next year, as well as a draft pick for the 33-year-old.
Coach Chris Scott has previously expressed his doubts a deal can be struck on anything like those terms.
Further complicating a potential homecoming is the Cats' lack of early draft picks this year, with their first selection in the second round (No.20).
"I think Geelong have to be careful given they've given up draft picks in trading over the last few years," Ling continued.
"To then trade out any of that young talent that they've got - Darcy Lang's name has been mentioned, even Wylie Buzza's name has been mentioned - I think they've got to hold onto that youth and develop them.
"That could be the missing link of taking the next step.
"It's not just 'You get Gaz and you're going to win a premiership' ... it's not as simple as that."
Despite the road blocks along Ablett's path back to the Cattery, Ling is confident he will be a Geelong player by the end of the trade period.
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